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BVNA launches new guidance on delegating to RVNs
“RVNs are highly skilled and trained professionals” – Lyndsay Hughes.
The resource sets out how to maximise the role of vet nurses.

The British Veterinary Nursing Association (BVNA) has published new guidance on delegating Schedule 3 tasks to veterinary nurses.

Although the organisation wants to see reform of the Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966 in the long-term, BVNA believes that veterinary nurses can currently be better utilised under existing legislation.

The guidance also reflects the opportunities for veterinary nurses to take on additional clinical responsibilities identified by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons in its review of how ‘under care’ is interpreted.

It is hoped that the new resources will improve the confidence of veterinary teams in understanding Schedule 3 and maximise the role played by RVNs. As well as supporting the workload of veterinary surgeons and improving efficiency, BVNA believes that this could also promote patient welfare and enhance job satisfaction.

BVNA is planning a series of activities and resources for next year to complement its new guidance, including interactive sessions at BVNA Congress in October 2025.

Lyndsay Hughes, BVNA president, said: “BVNA's position is clear - that reform of the outdated Veterinary Surgeons Act is urgently required. However, we are also aware that under this existing legislation, there are still missed opportunities to utilise RVNs to our full capability, often due to a lack of confidence and clarity in interpreting Schedule 3.

“RVNs are highly skilled and trained professionals. Full utilisation of our skillset means we can enhance the delivery of patient care, and do even more to contribute to the veterinary team and business. Importantly, this will also lead to a greater sense of fulfilment and job satisfaction in our roles.”

The full guidance can be read here.

Image © Shutterstock

 

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Antibiotic Amnesty survey opens

News Story 1
 The Responsible Use of Medicines Alliance - Companion Animal and Equine (RUMA - CA&E) has launched a survey which seeks to measure the success of this year's Antibiotic Amnesty campaign.

Its results will help the group to calculate how many unused or out-of-date antibiotics were returned as part of the campaign throughout November. Practices are also asked how they engaged with clients to raise awareness of the issue.

Participating practices can enter a prize draw to win up to 100 in vouchers for taking part. Further prizes from BSAVA and Webinar Vet will be available for practices with the best input.

The survey takes a few minutes to complete and will be running throughout December. It can be accessed via this link

Click here for more...
News Shorts
Bluetongue cases lead to restricted zone extension

Following the detection of new cases of bluetongue virus serotype 3 (BTV-3), the restricted zone has been extended to include additional parts of Hampshire, Wiltshire, Oxfordshire and North Yorkshire, as well as Bournemouth, Christchurch, Poole and part of Dorset.

The zone now covers 28 counties and unitary authorities in England. As of 16 December, 185 cases of BTV-3 have been confirmed in England and Wales during the current vector period.

Bluetongue is a notifiable disease. Suspected cases must be reported on 03000 200 301 in England or 03003 038 268 in Wales. In Scotland, suspected cases should be reported to the local field services office. Suspected cases in Northern Ireland should be reported to the DAERA Helpline on 0300 200 7840 or by contacting the local DAERA Direct Veterinary Office.

A map of the area where movement restrictions apply can be found here.