Author: Nicola Ruedisueli, PGDipVetEd, FHEA, PGCHE, RVN
ABSTRACT This article discusses a team-based approach to small animal parasite control, addressing the need to balance effective prevention with concerns about parasiticide resistance, adverse reactions and environmental contamination from parasiticide use. The author outlines how veterinary surgeons (VSs), veterinary nurses (VNs), suitably qualified persons (SQPs) and receptionists can collaborate to deliver risk- based parasite control protocols, using lifestyle assessment and owner education to optimise outcomes. The role of the VN is highlighted, including conducting detailed history-taking, performing faecal egg counts and coproantigen ELISA tests, and supporting the VS’s prescribing decisions within legal and professional boundaries. VN-led clinics are described as a key setting for explaining parasiticide product choices, demonstrating ectoparasite checks and parasiticide application techniques, discussing zoonotic risks, and tailoring parasite control plans for dogs, cats and rabbits. The article explains how ‘intelligent worming’ approaches using faecal egg counts and coproantigen testing at appropriate intervals can reduce unnecessary treatments while monitoring parasiticide efficacy and mitigating resistance. By adopting a consistent, evidence-based, whole-team approach, practices can enhance owner compliance, improve animal welfare, support public health and maintain strong client–practice relationships, while enabling each team member to work to the top of their scope of practice.
Keywords team, SQP, VN-led clinic, small animal, worms, parasite control, McMaster, Baermann
DOI: https://doi.org/10.56496/DHZT8856
To cite this article: Ruedisueli, N. (2026) The role of the veterinary nurse in a team-based approach to parasite control. VNJ 41(2) pp28-32.
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