The experience that student veterinary nurses (SVNs) have in the clinical learning environment can be greatly influenced by the clinical coach (CC); the supervisory relationship will affect student retention and clinical competency. To support a positive student experience, the training and development of CCs must be critically reviewed and regularly updated. This research aimed to ascertain the current CC training undertaken and the preparedness of CCs for their role in training SVNs. We used a prospective cross-sectional study design. An online survey was distributed over 4 weeks to CCs across the United Kingdom representing a range of educational institutions, and it generated 80 responses. Prior to undertaking their initial CC training, CCs had been qualified practitioners for a median of 2.2 years (IQR = 4.16y). CCs stated they needed more course content during their training regarding student teaching and pastoral support, more support from associated institutions, and there was a call for a longer training period leading to a formal qualification. Providing CC training with broader course content and some level of evaluation should be considered to develop and assess the non-clinical skills that are vital to the role.
The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons is dedicated to empowering registered veterinary nurses (RVNs) and ensuring that they are valued members of the workforce within the United Kingdom. However, this is not always reported by the RVNs themselves, who state that although they derive satisfaction from working with animals and within a profession that makes a difference, there are areas in which they are not currently satisfied, such as pay scale and recognition. Responses to a questionnaire were analyzed using a mixed-methods design to determine current factors affecting job satisfaction utilizing a deductive and inductive approach. The questionnaire reached 205 RVNs currently working in practice within the UK; respondents were divided between remaining at their current practice ( n = 101) and finding alternative employment ( n = 80). Those who stated that they were happy in their job role were more likely to want to remain there. Themes relating to positive and negative job satisfaction were reported and used to devise strategies employers and employees could use to increase or maintain RVNs’ overall satisfaction. More focus is needed on support and communication within veterinary practices, support for appropriate delegation linked to recognition of the RVN role, and support from educators to prepare students for the RVN role. Although the questionnaire did not reach the targeted sample size, responses agree with previous data indicating that changes made to the RVN role in the UK have not sufficiently improved job satisfaction scores.
Many canine patients have a requirement to return to the veterinary practice on a regular basis for treatment. Those that have associations of fear or anxiety with a practice, can find themselves in extremely stressful situations, effecting not only the animal but also the owner. Therefore it is important to take into consideration the welfare of the animals that are returning for further consultations, such as wound care. Consideration of what can be done to try and make these visits as stress-free as possible is essential. The veterinary nurse should be aware of methods that can be utilised to distract patients when undergoing potentially uncomfortable and stressful treatments.
Periodontal disease is prevalent in dogs in the UK, and has many negative consequences for the health and welfare of the affected individual. Despite techniques and products being available for owners to maintain good oral health, compliance is low. This study used a questionnaire to investigate dog owners’ awareness and use of dental homecare, and the influence of veterinary professionals, to establish if further educational intervention is required. Quantitative and qualitative analysis revealed a lack of knowledge and performance of dental homecare, suggesting a need for veterinary professionals to provide education for owners on this topic.
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