Veterinary Nursing - the Entry Routes
A popular, yet sometimes oversubscribed occupational choice, veterinary nursing requires particular qualities and qualifications which are not always known to all. CCUK asks the British Veterinary Nursing Association to describe the routes to becoming a Veterinary Nurse.
Day to Day Work
This usually includes instruction in procedures such as theatre work (including anaesthesia), cleaning, instrument sterilisation, assistance in consultation rooms, ordering drugs, radiography, laboratory diagnostic tests, ward work (including general care and treatment of in-patients) and telephone/reception duties. Most of the experience gained will be with small animals (mainly cats and dogs), although some practices undertake farm animals and equine work as well.
Finding a Vacancy
Vacancies for students are often limited in number yet greatly in demand. It is often a good idea to contact your local Veterinary Surgeon(s) and ask if there is any weekend, evening or voluntary work available. This will allow you to see what the job entails and get some work experience which my help in securing a full time job later.
The BNA runs an Employment Register which is FREE to Members and £16.00 for Non-members for an 4 (four) week period. However, if you have not obtained employment within this period, a further 4 weeks will be provided Free of Charge, upon receipt of your instructions. The register is aimed at those who are seriously seeking a position in practice as a student veterinary nurse, qualified Veterinary Nurse or locum nurses. Details of those on the Register are sent to employers who then contact the prospective employee direct. Positions are also advertised in our publication the "Veterinary Nursing Journal". Please contact the BNVA Office, whose address appears later, for details of the Employment Register and advertisements in the "Veterinary Nursing Journal".
You may write (enclosing a.s.a.e.) to the Approved Training Centres (A.T.C.s) in the are you are interested in, asking for details of any existing or future vacancies. It is a good idea to write to them at regular intervals so that they know you are still interested in finding a position. It may be necessary to move in order to find a suitable position but some A.T.C.'s provide accommodation. This is usually on the premises, sometimes shared. You should also enquire about the training provided, (i.e. whether the practice sends students on college courses). A list of the
Approved Training Centres is available from the BVNA at £2.00 a copy. Please enclose a LARGE STAMPED ADDRESSED ENVELOPE to the BVNA with your remittance.
Current Salaries and Conditions
There is no set salary scale for V.N.s or students since there is no standardisation of pay or conditions in veterinary practice. However, the BVNA carried out its own survey in 1992. A copy of this survey is available from the BVNA price "2.00 Non-members and FREE to BVNA Members.
Qualified Veterinary Nurses received between £5,000 and £9,000 per annum (depending on area). Student Veterinary Nurses received between £3,000 and £7,000 per annum (depending on area). Holiday entitlement was usually 3 weeks minimum plus statutory public holidays.
In all cases employers should merit an employee's age, scholastic achievements, length of service, all previous work experience and examination attainment when deciding upon a salary scale. Wages vary enormously from one practice to another depending on the size, type and geographical location.
When the above mentioned factors have been taken into account, it is for the employer and employee to come to a mutual agreement. Once such an agreement has been reached, a Contract of Employment has been made. The legal requirements relating to these should be noted by prospective employees and it is advised that you refer to your nearest Citizens Advice Bureau or ACAS office for details if you are in doubt.
Training Courses and Examinations
Practical tuition and experience are gained in practice but theoretical knowledge can be obtained in a number of ways. Some students study from text books, perhaps with additional help from their employers and colleagues. Most, however, find it necessary to attend a part-time, full-time, day release or evening college course. Details of all courses are available from the BVNA.
Two examinations must be passed before qualification as a Veterinary Nurse is granted. These are the Part I examination, which may be taken after 4 months (prior to the closing date of the examination) as an enrolled student and the Part II examination which is taken at the end of the 2 year training period.
The subject matter of both exams deals mainly with the dog and cat, though some knowledge of the general management of other small animals e.g. cage birds, rabbits, guinea pigs, mice and tortoises will be expected. Once both exams have been passed and the two years completed, the R.C.V.S. issue a Certificate of Veterinary Nursing, and the holder may use the letters "V.N" after his/her name.
The British Veterinary Nursing Association
The British Veterinary Nursing Association was founded in 1965. Membership application is open to all students, V.N.s and interested persons. Its aims are to promote a high standard of veterinary nursing and to improve the status and conditions for veterinary nurses. It is the only organisation which represents the veterinary nursing profession.
Members receive a bi-monthly journal containing scientific papers, articles, reports, letters and details of forthcoming events. Branch meetings and refresher courses are arranged throughout the country as well as a popular Annual Congress, *all at reduced rates for members. Further details are available from the BVNA Office. Please enclose a stamped addressed envelope with ALL enquiries to:
BVNA Office, Unit 12D The Seedbed Centre, Coldharbour Road, Harlow, Essex CM19 5AF
Opportunities for Veterinary Nurses
Once qualified many Veterinary Nurses continue to work in Veterinary Practice but may take on greater responsibilities. These include practice management, supervision of hospital wards and teaching other nursing or support staff. A Veterinary Nurse is not restricted to working in an A.T.C. once qualified and so may move to any veterinary practice.
Positions outside veterinary practice include work in research establishments, laboratories, universities, colleges, zoos, pharmaceutical companies, breeding and boarding kennels etc. Some Veterinary Nurses have used their qualifications to secure jobs abroad.
At present the majority of Veterinary Nurses are female although the number of men gaining the V.N. qualification is steadily increasing. Veterinary Nursing is often physically and emotionally very demanding. However, the skills acquired and the satisfaction of caring for animals and their owners can be extremely rewarding.
Qualified Veterinary Nurses working in A.T.C.s may now go on to study for the Diploma in Advanced Veterinary Nursing (Surgical). This, like the initial veterinary nursing training is a two year course although one examination is taken at the end of the two year period.
Further details regarding the Diploma is available to qualified Veterinary Nurses from the BVNA Office upon receipt of a LARGE stamped addressed envelope.
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