RCVS Day One Competences, Skills and Professional Behaviours for Veterinary Nurses

In order to determine the most appropriate way in which the student can work towards the skill, where deemed applicable, the following teaching or assessment methods should be utilised:

• A set task is an opportunity for students to demonstrate clinical skills in areas that do not require a patient, for example, preparing necessary equipment and materials for administration of intravenous fluids or applying bandages. Objective structured clinical examination (OSCE) stations are set tasks and can be utilised in the teaching and assessment of students.
• Role playing can provide powerful and significant learning opportunities in training. When implemented properly it allows for the opportunity to practise in a safe environment where mistakes have no real consequences as would be the case in “on the job” practice, for example communication with clients. Role plays can demonstrate how well students apply theory to practice.
• Mannequins can provide realistic clinical experiences for students and should be as realistic as possible to mimic real life.
• Simulation is an event or situation that is made to resemble clinical practice as closely as possible. It has a detailed scenario, patient and/or client information and requires careful planning. General points to consider include:
  • Is the situation as realistic as possible?
  • Does the chosen method reflect requirements of nursing practice?
  • Is student performance sufficient to make a decision that they would be competent with the skill in a real situation?
  • Have you recorded a clear rationale?