A case-based approach to professional and legal issues

Veterinary professionals are considered by many to be extremely fortunate to occupy such a rewarding career. Indeed the opportunity to care for companion animals is a gratifying honour; however this does not come without immense responsibility. Veterinary professionals can encounter challenging emotive situations requiring consideration of legal and professional issues. As veterinary nursing progresses towards professional identification it is imperative that registered veterinary nurses (RVN) are conscious of their responsibilities and are guided by these in their actions.

This article contemplates the professional and legal implications of an RVN's actions in practice through reflection on a fictitious scenario stemming from a potentially difficult situation. The author aims to utilise the analysis to make recommendations for future practice and provide evidence to support the development of the profession.

The critical incident (Box 1) resulted from a significant failure in team communication and severe lack of personal responsibility from a multitude of individuals. It is ultimately the veterinary surgeon who is responsible for the action of surgery; however it would be inappropriate to lay all of the blame for the incident with them. The involvement of the RVN completing documentation incorrectly and clipping the wrong limb directly contributed to the resulting error. The focus of the paper will be on the role of the RVN; it is felt by the author that consideration of the scenario will have significant constructive effects on the developing profession.