The BVNA has warned a “significant issue” with inappropriate use of the veterinary nurse title remains as it released initial findings from its inaugural survey of the profession.

A preliminary report revealed 52% of respondents reported knowing an individual using the “veterinary nurse” title without being properly qualified or regulated.

Meanwhile, more than a quarter said they did not currently use all the practical skills they are trained to carry out.

While a full analysis was expected to be released before the end of the year, the group said the findings would be used both to shape its activities and inform key stakeholders and policymakers.

‘Deep concerns’

President Lyndsay Hughes said: “BVNA continues to have deep concerns regarding the prevalence of unqualified individuals referred to as a ‘veterinary nurse’, either by others or by themselves.

“In the strongest terms, we feel that in order to safeguard animal welfare, along with transparency and client trust over those providing care for their pets, this title must be reserved solely for those who are properly qualified and regulated.”

Other key issues highlighted in the preliminary report include:

• More than a third of RVN respondents felt that their salary did not fairly reflect their responsibilities.
• Veterinary nurses could be used further in practice, with more than a quarter of respondents not using all the practical skills they are trained to carry out.
• A need for additional training in Schedule 3 tasks to improve confidence, where 47% of respondents stated their confidence “depends on the task”. Veterinary nurses must be competent, confident and experienced to accept delegation of Schedule 3 tasks.