An important survey led by the NAVC and VCA Animal Hospitals, with support from NAVTA, revealed striking misconceptions about the role, responsibilities, education and skills of veterinary nurses/technicians.
- 47 percent of pet owners did not know that the role of the credentialed veterinary nurse/technician includes performing medical tasks and procedures
- 73 percent understood their role was cleaning cages, removing animal waste, feeding or grooming pets
- 63 percent of pet owners do not know that credentialed veterinary nurses and technicians are the animal healthcare equivalent of registered nurses
Source: NAVTA, March 29, 2022. Link. The survey was conducted as a part of a national awareness and education campaign led by the NAVC and VCA Animal Hospitals, with support from NAVTA. The campaign is part of the Veterinary Nurse Empowerment Initiative, a bold new program the NAVC launched in January to elevate and advance credentialed veterinary nurses/technicians.
INSIGHTS: There is an important opportunity for individual practices to feature veterinary nurses/techs using websites, newsletters, blogs and social media.