At the veterinary practice, there are many different types of roles that a nurse can take on. Common roles include a nurse receptionist, an anaesthetic nurse and a consulting nurse to name just a few. But, what does it mean to be an advanced veterinary nurse?
Let’s take a look at what it means to be an advanced veterinary nurse and what this means for a veterinary practice.
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What is an advanced veterinary nurse?
A registered veterinary nurse (RVN) can choose to continue their studies after they have gained their RVN status. To become an advanced veterinary nurse, the RVN will have to undergo training at an undergraduate or postgraduate level and should have already achieved their RVN status.
A course in advanced veterinary nursing allows RVNs to focus on a niche subject, enabling them to develop their skills in this particular area further. There are two qualifications available, including:
- CertAVN: Certificate in Advanced Veterinary Nursing at a post graduate level.
- DipAVN: Diploma in Advanced Veterinary Nursing at an undergraduate level.
What are the benefits of an advanced veterinary nurse qualification?
RVNs who undergo advanced veterinary nurse training can have a better understanding of a particular subject. For example, an RVN may choose to undergo a certificate in anaesthesia, and this can bring fresh knowledge and new techniques to the rest of the veterinary team.
It could be said that an RVN who has an advanced veterinary nurse qualification may be able to offer a pet a higher standard of care due to their expertise and knowledge. However, this does not mean that an RVN that does not hold a certificate lacks adequate knowledge – it means that a certificate holder may have more of a well rounded approach.
It is important to remember that the veterinary world is constantly changing and evolving. New techniques, drugs and ideas are emerging all the time and it is through further professional development that veterinary practices can “keep up” with these new ways of working.
An RVN who carries out a certificate can help to bridge the gap between the old way of doing things and the newer, more up to date way of carrying out veterinary tasks. They may be able to develop a veterinary practice’s services, offering a better service for clients and their pets.
How long does it take to become an Advanced Veterinary Nurse?
The majority of courses to become an Advanced Veterinary Nurse last around 1 year. They usually include remote learning, along with regular attendance to a university. Different modules are set by the university for the nurse to complete, along with written assignments.
Advanced veterinary nursing courses are not easy – the RVN needs to show commitment, determination and a keen interest, not only in the veterinary profession but also to their niche area.
What areas can a veterinary nurse develop with a certificate?
There are different areas in which an RVN can choose to advance their skills. It often depends on the RVNs individual interests along with the specific needs of the veterinary practice. Areas that can currently be developed include:
- Anaesthesia
- Analgesia and pain management
- Behaviour
- Exotics, Zoo and Wildlife
- Oncology
- Rehabilitation Therapy
- Surgical
- Medical
- Practice (or Consulting) Nursing (often including a prescribing qualification as SQP)
Final thoughts on advanced veterinary nursing
An advanced veterinary nurse can be a huge benefit for the veterinary practice. An RVN who holds a certificate can help to develop and reshape how the veterinary practice runs, using up to date and researched methods.
Not only can they help to develop the services of the practice, but RVNs who hold a certificate can also help to support owners and their pets by offering tailored advice within their area of interest.
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