Nicola's Veterinary
Nursing Services 

HOW DOES THE DISTRICT VETERINARY NURSE HUB WORK?

Please see dvnhub.com for details of how the Hub can connect you, your Vet and myself in order to facilitate a care plan for your pet. All pet's must be referred for treatment to be carried out - I can only work under the direction and instruction of the Vet.

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HOW DO I KNOW I CAN TRUST YOU?

I have good connections with local Veterinary practices having been Registered since 2008. I have clear DBS and ACRO police checks. I complete (and exceed) my Continuous Professional Development each year in order to stay on the Register. I have a clean driver's license. I have insurance through the Veterinary Defence Society and Holistic Insurance Services.

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WHO GOVERNS YOU?

The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons is the governing body for Registered Veterinary Nurses. I follow their Code of Conduct and Principles of Practice. In addition to this I follow the DVN Hub's District Veterinary Nurse Code of Conduct.

I will only work under a Veterinary Surgeon's instruction (preferably written unless an emergency), after following the referral guidelines set by the RCVS and DVN Hub.

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MY PET NEEDS TO GO TO THE VET - WILL YOU TAKE THEM?

I can assist with this but I am not insured to transport clients. We will need to discuss the best option for you and your pet, depending on the concerns you have for your pet's health or medical needs. I will discuss with the Vet any (nursing) care required and inform you when I safely return your pet to you.

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DO YOU HAVE EXPERIENCE WITH RARE OR EXOTIC SPECIES?

Some, yes.

I am confident and comfortable handling most small mammals. In the veterinary profession, animals such as rabbits, guinea pigs and rats are often classed as “exotics”.

I am used to handling poultry and ducks, as well as some pet birds such as budgies and small parrot species.

I have handled reptiles but my experience is more limited in this area. In many cases I am still able to safely administer medication if required.

As required by the RCVS, I will not take on work that I am not competent to carry out, or if there is any risk to you, your pet or myself. Please feel free to get in touch to discuss your pet’s needs.

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ARE YOU ABLE TO HELP IN AN EMERGENCY?

Only a veterinary surgeon can diagnose conditions, perform surgery or prescribe medication. Because of this, I can only assist with your pet’s care after they have been seen by a vet and formally referred to me.

However, I may be able to assist with communications between you and the emergency service, and potentially provide transport for your pet if necessary.

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HOW DOES PAYMENT AND INSURANCE WORK?

My services are invoiced separately from your veterinary practice and payment is required directly to me, either in advance or at the time of the treatment or consultation.
Following a visit, I will write a report for your Vet so your pet’s clinical history can be updated.

If needed for insurance purposes, an itemised statement can be sent to your Vet so they can complete the relevant paperwork. You may also request itemised statements or a copy of your pet’s clinical history at any time.

All fees will be discussed with you before your initial consultation. Please note that these fees may sometimes be estimates, as treatment plans occasionally need to change depending on your pet’s needs. If this happens, I will always discuss it with you first.

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DO YOU COMPLY WITH GDPR REQUIREMENTS?

Yes.

As part of the consent form you sign when using my services, you will give permission for me to liaise with your Vet, other veterinary professionals if required, and your insurance company where relevant.

If I wish to use your pet’s case as an example on social media or for educational purposes, I will always request written consent from you first. This permission can be withdrawn at any time (although I cannot control how content may be shared elsewhere on the internet).

The only exception to the above is if I have concerns about your pet’s welfare. In those circumstances, I am legally permitted to seek advice from organisations such as the Veterinary Defence Society, the RSPCA, the police or other relevant authorities.

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Have another question?

Please feel free to email me and I will be happy to help

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Call: 07769 382102                            Email: hello@nicolavetnurse.co.uk