There can't be a person around who isn't glad to see the back of 2020. And, while we have started this year in lockdown, there does seem to be light at the end of the tunnel with the rollout of vaccinations going well.
Throughout the pandemic the RCVS has monitored the impact of COVID-19 on veterinary practice, and at the end of December they published the findings of their fifth survey. The document Coronavirus: economic impact on veterinary practice indicated that 63% were now able to maintain ‘business as usual’, up from 58% in the previous survey. The survey, however, showed that while fewer veterinary staff were furloughed, there was an increased impact on the mental wellbeing of the staff continuing to work (75% compared with 56% in September). The survey period was before lockdown 2, and I hope you are all well and looking after yourselves now.
One thing I really dislike reading about on Twitter is the rudeness of the general public to veterinary staff, especially at this time when we all need to be kind to each other. It's something I don't understand, and that can't be excused. To help stay strong veterinary professionals need to support each other, and I'm sure that's exactly what many of you are doing.
In her article on legal implications of euthanasia (pp4–6), Louise Olley talks about Schwartz Rounds, which have been used with success in human medicine. Schwartz Rounds provide a structured forum where all staff, clinical and non-clinical, can come together to discuss the emotional and social aspects of working in healthcare — this approach could be easily transferable to veterinary medicine. It is suggested that Rounds should take place once a month for around an hour, and that all veterinary staff are included, from reception to vet. The Rounds involve a panel of three members of staff (a mix of clinical and non-clinical) who share their experiences for around 20 minutes on a particular case or a theme such as ‘when things go wrong’. Each panel member shares their experiences with a particular emphasis on the emotional impact this experience made. A facilitator can then lead an open discussion in which everyone can reflect on the stories — the idea is that the Round is not a problem-solving activity, but a place and time to share and understand the challenges and rewards intrinsic to providing care. Schwartz Rounds can help staff to feel more supported in their jobs, giving them time and space to reflect on their role. Evidence has shown that staff who attend Rounds feel less stressed and isolated, with increased insight and appreciation for each other's roles.
The underlying premise for Schwartz Rounds is that the compassion shown by staff can make all the difference to a patient's experience of care, and that in order to provide compassionate care staff must, in turn, feel supported in their work.
Another article this month looks at the important issue of socialisation (pp8–14) in kittens and puppies. There is anecdotal evidence that more young companion animals are being presented to behaviourists because of an extreme sensitivity to their environment, both within and outside the home, caused by a lack of socialisation and habituation in their early months.
COVID-19 has not only disrupted our own wellbeing, but has also likely restricted the social and environmental resilience of young animals.
Please take a little time now to be kind to yourselves. I hope you enjoy this issue of The Veterinary Nurse.