Introduction to the RCVS and Veterinary Nursing

The RCVS has two key functions in relation to veterinary nursing. These are the maintenance of the statutory list of veterinary nurses and the award of veterinary nursing NVQs.

VN List

Qualified veterinary nurses may enter the RCVS List of Veterinary Nurses. On entering the List they are entitled by law to give animals medical treatment, and carry out certain minor surgery, under veterinary direction. Listed nurses are entitled to use the post-nominal letters 'VN'.

Qualified nurses are key members of the veterinary team, providing skilled care for sick animals and support for their owners. In order to qualify, nurses undergo a two-year period of vocational training which is assessed at work and through examination by the RCVS.

VN qualifications and awards

The RCVS is the awarding body for veterinary nurse qualifications. Student veterinary nurses undergo a practically based vocational training, giving treatment under supervision, supported by theoretical study courses at a range of levels from further education day-release to full-time undergraduate programmes.

All veterinary nurse training must address the National Occupational Standards in veterinary nursing. Students achieve NVQ levels 2 and 3 before being awarded their RCVS Certificate which entitles them to register on the List.

The RCVS actively encourages veterinary nurses to maintain their competence through continuing professional development. A thrice-yearly newsletter - RCVS News - keeps them in touch with professional issues.

The RCVS has a number of post-qualification awards which are available for study by experienced veterinary nurses.