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RCVS shares first findings from VN Vision study
Veterinary nurses were asked what role they wanted to play in the future of veterinary care.

The project has heard what RVNs and SVNs want for the future.

The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) has released findings from the first stage of its VN Vision project.

Its report reveals what registered veterinary nurses (RVNs) and student veterinary nurses (SVNs) want for the future of veterinary healthcare, and what role they want veterinary nurses to play in it.

The first stage of the initiative has involved 14 sessions, both in-person and online, during which RVNs and SVNs were invited to share their views on the future of veterinary care. The discussions sought to gain a range of perspectives and asked respondents to keep an open mind.

The discussions focused on two questions: ‘What does the veterinary nursing profession want the future of veterinary healthcare to look like?’ and ‘What role will veterinary nurses play in shaping this future?’.

RCVS’ new report, which was published online this week, reveals the common themes raised in these discussions. Among the topics featured were responsibility and autonomy, recognition from colleagues and the general public, and improved career progression.

The analysis of these findings could inform how veterinary healthcare could be used to maximise efficiency and enhance RVNs' job satisfaction.

The VN Vision project forms part of the wider VN Futures initiative, a joint endeavour with the British Veterinary Nursing Association (BVNA). Launched in 2016, VN Futures aims to conduct an exploration into what veterinary nurses want from their futures.

The next project from VN Vision has been titled ‘A vision or a necessity: strengthening the role of veterinary nurses in team-based veterinary healthcare’.

Launching in the next few weeks, the events will explore how veterinary nurses can be integrated into multidisciplinary teams and why this is important, The sessions will open to all members of the veterinary team, with dates to be announced.

Julie Dugmore, RCVS director of veterinary nursing, said: “I would like to thank everyone who has taken valuable time out of their busy schedules to input into this vital project.

“Your involvement has made a real difference and we look forward to engaging with many more veterinary professionals as we continue working together bring our shared vision for a thriving future to life.”

The first VN Vision report can be read here.

Image © Shutterstock

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Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

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.