Hannah Thompson RVN Hannah qualified as an RVN in 2017 and has worked in small animal first opinion practice and in ophthalmology referrals. She has a keen interest in animal behaviour, patient care and anaesthesia.

ABSTRACT The current shortage of veterinary professionals and low staff retention rates mean
veterinary nurses (VNs) can find themselves taking on extra responsibilities, covering shifts and managing day-to-day tasks on their own. Sole-charge nursing can be a good opportunity for VNs to use their skills and have autonomy with patients. However, working alone for long periods of time may have negative effects on a VN’s ability to provide a high standard of care. The increased workload can challenge their work–life balance and put stress on their mental and physical wellbeing.
VNs in highly stressful situations are at risk of developing compassion fatigue or burnout from trying to keep up with the demands of clients and employers. It then becomes more difficult for them to care about situations they previously recognised as important, which can be detrimental to patient care. What were once considered priorities can become overlooked or mistakes can be made, such as drawing up the incorrect drug dose or snapping at a patient. This article highlights the reasons VNs find themselves in sole charge of patient care, the signs of burnout and compassion fatigue in VNs and the potential effect of sole-charge veterinary nursing on patients.
Keywords staff, retention, burnout, compassion fatigue, patient, care, nursing

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56496/VHEL6540

To cite this article: Thompson, H. (2024) The impact of sole-charge veterinary nursing on patient care. VNJ 39 (6) pp 48-52. DOI: https://doi.org/10.56496/VHEL6540

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