How long have you been a senior nurse, and what do you enjoy best about your job?
I have been a senior RVN for the past three years, working at two different practices.
I really enjoy being able to perform Schedule 3 procedures and the trust my clinical director has in us to perform these procedures. We are lucky to be able to perform such procedures and are able to develop our skills in the areas that interest us the most. I am also a clinical coach, training SVNs, and I find seeing them develop and grow in the practice very rewarding. I also enjoy how every day is different and you never know what may walk through the door.
I have also recently completed the IVC practice manager training, as I have taken on practice managerial work. I have enjoyed the training provided and feel it has set me up to face what this new role will involve.
Tell us a little about the extra qualifications you’ve taken. Why did you choose to do them?
I have recently completed the Excel leadership practice manager training. I was about to start undertaking managerial work within the practice, so felt this would be a great course to set me up for this. The course not only provided very useful hints and tips for managing the team, but also gave a very good overview of IVC policies and procedures.
What has this meant for your everyday life as an RVN, and how has it benefited the practice?
Since completing this extra training and taking on the practice manager role alongside my RVN role, I have been able to drive the team forward and increase job satisfaction for the team.
I am also using my new position to progress the practice and put us through the RCVS Practice Standards Scheme. This will be beneficial for both the practice and clients, as we enforce the high standards required.
Do you think VNs are aware of the options available to them for additional qualifications?
Any RVNs wanting to develop their career need to find the area of work that interests them most and then pursue that. So many options for RVNs to use their qualifications are out there; IVC has a wide range of options through its academies and nurses should use what is available based on what interests them. IVC provides a great deal of information regarding the training it provides, and information regarding other qualifications is widely available and supported.
Where would you like to progress to next? Are there additional areas you’d like to develop in?
I have a particular interest in Schedule 3 procedures and would like to continue to develop this, both in house and through external CPD. I would also like to continue developing my managerial skills through the practice manager training and support provided through IVC; I may one day complete the RCVS business management certificate also.