May 01, 2025
In celebration of Veterinary Nursing Awareness Month (VNAM), IVC Evidensia is presenting a special episode of the Beyond the Clinic podcast, exploring the evolution of the vet nurse role.
This year marks the 60th anniversary of the British Veterinary Nursing Association (BVNA), a key moment to reflect on the progress of veterinary nursing in the UK.
Hosted by Liz Cox, the upcoming VNAM episode gathers a panel of four experts from across IVC Evidensia. Representing over 20 years’ experience in veterinary nursing, they include:
In the episode the panel discusses how the role of the veterinary nurse has changed throughout their careers. Reflecting on the current progress, they also share their hopes for how it will continue to evolve.
Throughout the discussion, the panel reflect on challenges that have historically limited growth opportunities for veterinary nurses. However, after focusing on the significant changes of the past two decades, vet nurses have gained increasing recognition in practice.
Today, vet nurses are taking on broader responsibilities, stepping into leadership roles, and challenging outdated perceptions. This transformation has not only advanced the profession but helped reduce the pressure placed on veterinary surgeons.
The panel highlights various areas of change in veterinary nursing:
In response to the changes in veterinary nursing, the panel reports a collaborative approach to clinical practice.
Stacey describes a positive shift:
“Initially, [veterinary nursing] was a very much assistive role. We were there for the handling of a small range of clinics, and now we are a much more collaborative team. I think that we work together with the vets instead of working underneath them.”
Offering an equine perspective, Becky shared:
“I was worried when I first started doing this that perhaps we were going to be met with some resistance, but actually, [the veterinarians] embraced it. They really pushed.”
Becky further describes her practice as “very much team equine”.
New legislation has also accelerated the tangible progress we see today. In 2023, the RCVS updated its definition of veterinary nursing, reestablishing the nurse’s position in delivering care and upholding animal welfare. Additionally, the recent Under Care guidance has led to greater nursing responsibilities during patient care.
To support these laws, many organisations are establishing new and specialised qualifications. IVC Evidensia’s Nurse Academy provides a year-long CPD programme to boost vet nurse training. By offering a structured career pathway, vet nurses can enhance their skills and develop niches, ultimately helping them thrive.
When asked about their hopes for the future of veterinary nursing, the panel offered a diverse range of ideas.
“I think there is a lot more that vet nurses are totally and utterly capable of,” shares Racheal. “We need more of those opportunities to keep all of our passions going and to keep all nurses enthusiastic and everybody find their niche because there are lots of different niches nowadays.”
Additionally, Stacey suggested a ‘nursing practitioner’ status be introduced, while Becky highlighted the importance of the RVN title being protected.
Finally, Emily added:
“I think for the future of veterinary nursing, it being recognised as its own right and practice.”
“Nurses are driving forward it becoming common practice for patients to come in and be seen by the nurse first. I would love to see every practice working that way.”
Across the group, IVC Evidensia is proud to support the advancement of veterinary nursing. Through its Nurse Board and Nurse Academy, IVC Evidensia facilitates key learning opportunities, empowering veterinary nurses to deliver exceptional animal care.
Subscribe to Beyond the Clinic and tune in to the VNAM episode on 12 May to hear more from the panel.