Looking in the literature, or searching online, you will see many instances where veterinary nurses (VNs) and technicians are referred to as paraprofessionals; however, this term is not correct for a number of reasons.
Most definitions for paraprofessional state that they assist professionals but are not a member of the profession; they perform duties that would otherwise be carried out by professionals; and, they are not as highly trained, or well paid, compared to professionals. On the other hand, a professional is highly trained; carries a high amount of responsibility; is prevalent in just about every area of the profession; is responsible for their own currency and continuing education; gives back to their field; delegates to subordinates; and, is usually registered, licensed or otherwise is accountable for their actions in their work environment.
If VNs compare all of their daily tasks and actions to that of a veterinarian, then we can see that assisting professionals is a part of our job; but equally as important are the professional veterinary nursing tasks carried out as part of delivering veterinary services. Indeed, our own specialist training often makes us the most qualified person in the clinic to carry out veterinary nursing tasks. Therefore, we must be professionals in our own right.
In human nursing, it is well known that nurses are professionals in their own right and they work alongside paraprofessionals who handle basic care needs that are delegated to them by physicians and nurses. Even in as much as technicians, advanced practice nurses and nurse practitioners are utilised in rural areas and large hospitals to alleviate strain due to limited budgets or unavailable physicians, these care providers are still professionals carrying out their tasks with autonomy and responsibility, adhering to strict codes of conduct, and maintaining professional liability.
In contrast, veterinary clinics often have blurred the lines between professional and paraprofessional roles with VNs acting as animal care aides, receptionists, kennel assistants, and practice managers. While each of these roles is important in the delivery of veterinary services, not all of these positions are professionals so it is important that VNs maintain professionalism in other areas of their field.
Veterinary nursing carries with it years of specialist training, both hands-on and theoretical. We are the only ones in the clinic who are trained in animal nursing skills and we carry a high amount of responsibility in maintaining veterinary nursing standards within the clinical environment. We are accountable for our actions and responsible for our own continuing education and maintenance of currency in our field. We are often registered or licensed with a regulatory body and are members of professional representative bodies. As we develop in our careers, we are encouraged to give back by teaching others, writing professional articles and conducting clinical or scientific research. While these things are still works in progress in some parts of the world, we must think like professionals for only then will we truly represent the achievement and esteem of our field.
We hope you enjoy this issue.