Student nurse anaesthesia monitoring

RE: Student nurse anaesthesia monitoring

Loobyfly — Tue, 31 Mar 2015 11:44:53 GMT

Thank you for your feedback. I totally agree with what you have said.

RE: Student nurse anaesthesia monitoring

Clare Ball — Fri, 27 Mar 2015 08:07:18 GMT

I was going to say the exact same thing as Jane! Anaesthetic is always the vets responsibility so it is up to them to judge who they feel is competent in being their hands whilst they operate. So technically doesn't even have to be an SVN as long as the vet feels they are suitably trained to do the job.

the RCVS does state that RVN and SVN are the best people for the job but doesn't state that they are the only people.

RE: Student nurse anaesthesia monitoring

JaneRVN — Thu, 26 Mar 2015 15:26:29 GMT

RCVS guidance is that any suitably qualified person can monitor a GA. What is suitably qualified is left up to the vet/practice discretion.

RE: Student nurse anaesthesia monitoring

Celine — Tue, 24 Mar 2015 23:34:14 GMT

Sadly you're asking two different questions - what we think is right, and what actually happens in most practices. Unfortunately until a magic fairy waves a wand and improves the RVN: SVN ratio in practice (I know several with one RVN and 3 students plus an ANA or receptionist / cat holding person) then things aren't likely to change. Don't get me started on the number of people I know who have been left in charge of OOH phones (and on call) when they hadn't even formally started any training wwhatsoever.

Where are the RCVS gods to pass judgement on that, hmm? Not interested!!

Sorry will also relinquish soapbox. if you have concerns about the way things are being done at your practice I'd suggest drawing up a lot of crib sheets outlining when to call for help, lifethreatening conditions that must be seen straight away, etc. Then you've done your bit, Obviously lodge your reservations with the bosses too so they are aware you think it's susubstandard.

No idea if the RCVS has any guidance on this......?

RE: Student nurse anaesthesia monitoring

Nicola Smith — Tue, 24 Mar 2015 20:09:04 GMT

We most definitely dont. If they dont know how to recognise a problem then they cant even ask for help. Many students might think they could but in reality its putting patients lives at risk. Unconsciously incompetent is the phrase i would choose. Every ga carries a risk but unfortunately many practices seem oblivious to this and the role the rvn has in spotting and acting on problems.

Will get off soap box now :)