References
How to run a successful nurse clinic
Abstract
The veterinary market in today's world is forever evolving, putting more pressure on the veterinary team and practice. Clients are expecting more and more from the veterinary team in terms of diagnosis and treatment, meaning performing, running and delivering test results the same day. The veterinary nurse's role is becoming more diverse as treatments become more sophisticated, while still complementing the everyday workings of the veterinary practice. The fundamental principle of running a successful nursing clinic is to nurture the client–practice relationship, provide education, and generate profit. The use of the adapted Cambridge-Calgary model can also assist veterinary nurses in the running of successful nursing clinics.
In practice, the veterinary nurse (VN) has a wide role to play ensuring that they are aware of the legal, professional and ethical ramifications of any decisions they make or actions they take (Orpet and Welsh, 2011). Since becoming a regulated profession in 2007, VNs are accountable for their conduct and subject to the standards set by the Veterinary Nursing Council which relates to the Veterinary Surgeon Act (1966) where for example, only veterinary surgeons are permitted to make a diagnosis (Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons, 2016a and b). The VN is authorised to inform the owner of any clinical symptoms the animal is displaying, such as weight loss, poor coat condition, or skin problems and then advise what the next steps might be, which is usually a consultation with the veterinary surgeon (Ackerman, 2012). It is therefore the duty of care of VNs to ensure that owners are educated and supported to a level that prevents such conditions impinging on their animal's quality of life, and causing unnecessary suffering (McLeod, 2008).
Register now to continue reading
Thank you for visiting The Veterinary Nurse and reading some of our peer-reviewed content for veterinary professionals. To continue reading this article, please register today.