May is Veterinary Nursing Awareness Month, a whole month dedicated to raising awareness of the veterinary nursing profession and the vital role they play in animal care and treatment.
Amy is one dedicated Registered Veterinary Nurses (RVN) and she has kindly taken some time out to time to tell us about her life as an RVN at Calder Vets.
How long have you been a Vet Nurse and what route did you follow to qualify?
I have been qualified for four years in September but in practice for just over six years. I had never really wanted to go to university, so I decided to take the Level 3 Diploma course at the College of Animal Welfare in Leeds.
What attracted you to a career as a Veterinary Nurse?
I’ve always loved being around and looking after animals, even from being small. I’ve wanted to be a Veterinary Nurse for as long as I can remember, and have never wanted to do anything else.
What does your job as a Registered Veterinary Nurse entail?
Our job is so varied and we have many different roles within the practice. We can monitor anaesthetics, provide care and treatment to our inpatients, triage and help with emergencies, perform Schedule three procedures, scale and polish teeth, assist with taking radiographs, take blood samples, place intravenous catheters, carry out laboratory tests, perform nurse clinics, and so much more!
What is the most rewarding thing about being a Vet Nurse?
I love having a patient that has required intensive care nursing and watching them improve step by step, and go home to their family! I also love when a difficult surgery turns out well.
What kind of attributes do you need to be a good Vet Nurse?
You need to be able to work well with others, communicate effectively, multi-task, be dedicated, hard-working, trusting and strong (both mentally and physically).
What advice would you give someone thinking about a career as a Vet Nurse?
Don’t just think it’s about cuddling kittens and puppies. Expect a lot of cleaning and if possible, try and get some hands-on experience before committing to a course. It’s hard work but so rewarding and worth it at the end!
What are the best things about working at Calder Vets Dewsbury practice?
I really enjoy the variety of cases we see on a day to day basis, but I love working with all of the team – they are all little rays of sunshine! Each one of them brings something unique and individual to the team.
What would be your career highlight so far?
For me, I really struggled to pass one of my exams whilst training so passing that exam was a huge relief. The day I got my practical results also felt like the best day ever and I felt so proud of myself for reaching a life long goal.
Have you completed any additional training to support you in your role?
I’ve currently just been keeping up to date with CPD requirements and keeping my knowledge up to date, but I hope to undertake a certificate either this year or next year.
What’s the next step in your career pathway?
I would really like to gain some certificates. I have a real interest in anaesthesia and also medical.
Thank you, Amy, for sharing your story.
To find out more about the role of RVNs in veterinary practice, or if you are interested in finding out more about a career in veterinary nursing, visit the BVNA website at www.bvna.org.uk/a-career-in-veterinary-nursing/a-career-in-veterinary-nursing.
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