Veterinary Council of Ireland - Code of Professional Conduct for Veterinary Nurses

Introduction

• Issued on December 9, 2021, by the Veterinary Council of Ireland (VCI).
• Sets standards for professional practice for registered veterinary nurses in Ireland.
• The code is binding and includes guidelines to assist in professional conduct.
• Recognizes the role of veterinary nurses in various fields and their contribution to society.

Key Chapters

1. Professionalism

• Declaration: Commitment to uphold profession's honor and animal welfare.
• Professional Virtues: Compassion, discernment, integrity.
• Obligations: Legal and ethical duties towards animals, clients, and society.
• Behaviour: Nurses to be role models, maintain health, and manage stress.
• Concerns About Colleagues: Address concerns about colleague's health or competence.

2. Competent and Appropriate Veterinary Nursing Care

• Care Standards: Must be acceptable to peers, evidence-based.
• Continuing Veterinary Education: Regular participation required.
• Clinical Governance: Includes practice meetings, audits, and reviews.
• Permitted Procedures: Under direction or presence of a vet, includes anesthesia and minor procedures.

3. Animal Health and Welfare

• Advocacy: Responsibility to promote animal welfare.
• Special Responsibilities: Use knowledge to benefit animal welfare.
• Euthanasia and Slaughter: Conduct humanely with due consideration.
• Handling and Management: Educate on proper animal handling.

4. Protection of Society

• One Health: Connects animal health with human health and environment.
• One Welfare: Recognizes interconnections of animal welfare and human wellbeing.
• Reporting: Obligated to report diseases, mistreatment, and other public health issues.

5. Respect, Fairness, and Cooperation

• Respect: Treat colleagues and clients with fairness, not discriminate.
• Professional Co-operation: High ethical standards in professional interactions.

6. Communication, Confidentiality, and Consent

• Communication: Clear and honest information to clients and colleagues.
• Confidentiality: Maintain client confidentiality with specific exceptions.
• Informed Consent: Required for all treatments, except emergencies.

Appendices

Appendix I: Role and Scope of Practice

• Defines the range of tasks and procedures that veterinary nurses are authorized to perform.
• Emphasizes competence and continual education.

Appendix II: Relevant Legislation

• Lists relevant laws and standards veterinary nurses must be familiar with.

Appendix III: One Welfare Guidance

• Child Abuse and Domestic Violence: Guidance on dealing with such issues.
• Mental Health: Promote compassionate care and encourage seeking help.

Appendix IV: Continuing Veterinary Education

• Details requirements for ongoing education for veterinary nurses.

Appendix V: Indemnity Insurance

• Outlines requirements for insurance coverage for veterinary practice.

Conclusion

• The VCI Code is comprehensive in setting professional standards and guiding practitioners in maintaining ethical and high-quality care.