Diversification and opportunities within the profession: My roadmap as an RVN
After qualifying as a veterinary nurse, the natural progression is often viewed as working as part of a team in general practice. But what other opportunities are out there for Registered Veterinary Nurses?
What is your job title and what does the job entail?
I am the Programme Manager for Veterinary Nursing at CAFRE. This means I am in charge of the veterinary care and nursing programmes that the college offer.
Jill talks to veterinary nurse Krishna Mistry, who works as a medical nurse in a busy small animal hospital in West Yorkshire.
Jill Macdonald chats to RVN and Mind Matters Initiative Outreach and Engagement Senior Officer, Lacey Pitcher.
Lacey Pitcher is a Registered Veterinary Nurse who has had a varied career in the veterinary profession. She has worked in a variety of settings including OOH, GP, charity and multi-disciplinary referral.
Jill Macdonald chats to RVN, Emergency and Critical Care Nurse, Amy Miller.
Amy works as a permanent RVN for Vets Now. She feels working out of hours gives her a great work life balance and she really enjoys her work at Vets Now.
What do you enjoy about your job?
I enjoy being able to support the students through their journey in veterinary nursing. I like to ensure the students are grounded and open minded and non-judgemental with clients when they leave the course. My passion is ensuring animals have all their needs met and that the standards of nursing that the students give are what they would expect for their own animals.
How did you achieve your current position?
A slow climb! I started as a zookeeper initially, then trained as a vet nurse. I worked in a range of zoos and wildlife hospitals, as well as charity organisations and referral hospitals. Eventually I realised I really enjoyed teaching and supporting students, so I started lecturing.
How did you achieve your current position?
I was originally employed as a lead medical nurse, I was then promoted to head nurse, then nursing and operational manager. Having had previous senior and head nurse experience in the past, I have spent some time in leadership roles. I was asked to take on the role of director to bring a different viewpoint to the board.
Who is your current employer and what do they do?
I currently work at the RSPCA’s Greater Manchester Animal Hospital.
The hospital is part of three large RSPCA hospitals serving the UK, with a network of branches giving further support to those that are on low income and those that cannot afford private veterinary treatment.
Who is your current employer and what do they do?
Royal Canin Feline Healthy Ageing Clinic at the University of Liverpool.
The Feline Healthy Ageing Clinic is a research project in to how cats age, and aims to improve the welfare of ageing cats through research and education.
