Comparison of expectations between veterinarians and veterinary nurses in tasks and responsibilities in clinical practice

摘要

Background: It is reported that expectations from veterinary nurses and veterinarians on the clinical tasks veterinary nurses undertake in practice vary widely.Aims: To understand the difference in tasks and responsibilities reported by veterinary nurses in comparison to veterinarian expectations.Methods: Using an online survey, expectations regarding the capability of veterinary nurses undertaking clinical tasks in New Zealand veterinary clinics, were measured. Respondents were provided with a list of clinical tasks veterinary nurses are routinely trained to perform as part of formal veterinary nursing education, and two tasks veterinary nurses legally are currently not able to perform (cat neuters and dental extractions).Results: There were 288 responses from a veterinary nurse population of 1479 (19%), and 37 responses from a veterinarian population of 2425 (1.5%). Of respondents, 80% took blood samples, 78% placed intravenous (IV) catheters, 95% set-up of IV fluids, 72% carried out veterinary nurse consultations, 62% carried out clinical examinations, many carried out diagnostic testing (e.g. iDEXX/Vetscan (86%), urinalysis (88%), microscopy (51%), taking radiographs (81%)), 54% carried out dental scale and polish, 86% assisted with surgery, and 97% monitored anaesthetics. Veterinary nurses in New Zealand legally are currently not able to perform cat neuters and dental extractions - of these tasks, 25% and 26% of veterinary nurses reported having had training (eitherformal or informal) on performing cat neuters and dental extractions, with 12% and 16% of veterinary nurses reporting that they undertake this clinical procedure in practice.Conclusions: When looking at a selection of these tasks, comparing how many veterinarians report that veterinary nurses should be undertaking them, results show support for veterinary nurses undertaking these tasks. 100% of veterinarians support veterinary nurses placing IV catheters, with only 78% of veterinary nurses reporting completing this task, and 96% of veterinarians support veterinary nurses undertaking microscopy. In conclusion, veterinary nurses are trained in tasks they are not performing inclinical practice. The justification for this discrepancy is the subject of a future study with the aim of designing practical support for veterinary clinics to utilise the skills of veterinary nurses.