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VN role in anaesthesia may be extended
surgical
It is proposed that VNs be allowed to carry out induction and maintenence of anaesthesia.
Proposals recommended to RCVS Council

A proposal to extend the role of veterinary nurses in anaesthesia has been recommended to the RCVS Council. If approved, it could allow RVNs to legally carry out anaesthesia under certain conditions.

The current proposal is to amend Schedule 3 of the Veterinary Surgeons Act, to allow veterinary nurses to carry out induction and maintenance of anaesthesia - with the most 'high risk' areas requiring veterinary supervision.

It is suggested that a new level of 'direct supervision' could be created, whereby a veterinary surgeon must be present to observe and respond immediately to any request for assistance.

So far, views have been sought from the BVA, BSAVA, BVNA and Association of Veterinary Anaesthetists, all of which have been generally supportive of the proposal.

A key concern was discussed at the VN Council meeting in Telford last week, however. Vice chair Kathy Kissick pointed out that equine veterinary nurse training does not currently include a module on managing anaesthesia.

The module was replaced with one on neonatal care following feedback from equine nurses and the BEVA, she said.

Councillors discussed whether equine nurses should be excluded from the proposals - however, this concern would also apply to a number of other species, including exotic pets.

It was suggested that the proposals should cover all veterinary nurses, which places the onus of responsibility on the veterinary surgeon - and the individual RVN - to decide whether or not the nurse can carry out anaesthesia competently.

It was felt the Code of Professional Conduct covers this, as it stipulates that vets and nurses must only perform a task if they are able to do so competently.

The council also stressed that the public must be adequately educated about the change - it must not be seen as a weakening of standards, but portrayed accurately as the best placed members of staff carrying out anaesthesia.

If the proposals are agreed by the RCVS Council, they will then be looked at in detail.

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Webinar to explore history of KC breed registers

News Story 1
 A free webinar exploring the development of the Kennel Club's registration system and the evolution of closed breed registers has been announced.

Hosted by Dr Alison Skipper, veterinary and research advisor at the Kennel Club, the webinar will delve into the development of the registry and how the changing landscape of scientific knowledge has shaped breeding practices. It will also look at what this means for the future of pedigree dogs.

The session will culminate with a look at The Kennel Club's ongoing and future engagement in this area, with a chance for attendees to put forward their thoughts and questions for discussion.

This event takes place on Microsoft Teams on Tuesday, 10 June at 7pm. To learn more, visit events.teams.microsoft.com  

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.