ABSTRACT: Registered veterinary nurses (RVNs) are highly trained and skilled individuals who on a daily basis provide compassion and care to animals and clients. Whilst always caring for others, RVNs can start to experience stress, leading to more serious implications such as burn out and compassion fatigue. Monitoring for stress, burnout and compassion fatigue is important and having coping mechanisms in place can make a significant difference. This article will explore these terms and how to incorporate coping strategies into everyday life.

Author

Robyn McCurry, RVN, APVN (Zoo)

Robyn qualified form North Highland College in 2017 and currently works in a small animal practice. Robyn has an interest in exotics and has completed the advanced programme in Zoo animal nursing. She is currently studying towards a national certificate in anaesthesia but her main passion is teaching and mentoring students through her role as a clinical coach. Robyn is also interested in emergency nursing and intensive care medical cases in practice.

Email: robyn.mccurry@crownvets.co.uk

Keywords: mental health; veterinary nursing; compassion fatigue; burnout; stress 

To cite this article: • VOL 35 (09-12) • September-December 2020 • Veterinary Nursing Journal 

pp278-280

To gain access to this article, select one of the links below:

I am a BVNA member

I am accessing through my Institute

I am paying to gain access to this article