What does a veterinary nurse do?
When bringing your pets in to see us you will have met a veterinary nurse, but what do they do in practice and what training do they receive? May is Veterinary Nurse awareness month, so it’s the perfect time to learn more about these essential staff members!
Becoming a Veterinary Nurse
Registered Veterinary Nurses are registered with the Royal Veterinary College (RCVS) and are responsible for their own actions. They are trained to a high level, this includes training in practice for at least 1800 hours! Student veterinary nurses must also complete either a degree in veterinary nursing (this usually takes 4 years) or a Level 3 diploma in veterinary nursing (this takes 2-3 years) at an approved training centre. Student veterinary nurses have to complete written assignments, written, oral and practical exams to achieve their qualification, alongside completing a log of all their training to ensure they are competent in all aspects of the role.
Student veterinary nurses are invaluable members of staff, they are able to perform many of the tasks an RVN can perform while under the supervision of an RVN or Veterinary Surgeon and achieve competency in different areas as they complete their qualification.
Registered Veterinary Nurses and their role
Once all exams have been passed and hours achieved they can apply to register with the RCVS and work as a registered veterinary nurse (RVN). Once registered, RVNs need to complete at least 15 hours of further training (Continuing professional development) each year to stay on the register.
The RVN’s role is widely varied, as they need to be able to care for multiple species of patient. Our practice primarily treats cats, dogs and small mammals such as rabbits and guinea pigs. We also treat reptiles, birds, hamsters, gerbils, rats, tortoises, the list goes on! So RVNs need to be prepared for anything. RVNs are also often responsible for the day to day running of a veterinary practice, staff management and clinical governance.
The RVNs role includes:
anaesthesia
operating theatre management
phlebotomy
laboratory
radiography
pharmacy
stock control and ordering
grooming
caring for patients
educating
consulting
performing minor surgical procedures
advocating for animal welfare
administrative tasks
bereavement support
infection control
practice management
