Senior Veterinary Nurse

Willows Veterinary Group; Warrington; On-site; GBP 24,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

A veterinary care provider in Warrington seeks a full-time Registered Veterinary Nurse to maintain high nursing standards, support the Veterinary Surgeons, and mentor student nurses. The ideal candidate will have a strong commitment to animal care, professionalism, and effective teamwork. This role offers 30 days holiday, a pension scheme, and a CPD allowance for ongoing development.

Benefits

30 days holiday including bank holidays

Pension scheme

Healthshield benefits

CPD allowance of £600/year

Volunteering day annually

Qualifications

• Must be an RCVS Registered Veterinary Nurse.
• Experience with in-patient care and nursing protocols necessary.
• Ability to mentor student nurses and colleagues is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Ensure high standards of nursing care and communication.
• Liaise with Veterinary Surgeons for best practice.
• Support training and mentorship as a Clinical Coach.

Skills

Professional competence

Honesty and integrity

Client communication

Mentoring

Education

RCVS Registered Veterinary Nurse qualification

Tools

Diagnostic imaging equipment

Laboratory equipment

Job description

Our aim within the practice is to treat our patients as though they were our own animals, and to treat our clients in the way we would wish to be dealt with ourselves. This philosophy should be carried through at all levels, in terms of our demeanour, appearance, professionalism and communication (between vets, clients, external providers such as laboratories). We all have a part to play in ensuring the smooth running of the various aspects of the practice. All colleagues are expected to work to the highest of clinical standards. Support and training will be provided to ensure these standards of clinical excellence are attained.

Purpose of position:

Responsibility for creating and maintaining the highest standards of nursing care and professional performance. To liaise with the Veterinary Surgeons to ensure maintenance of 'best' veterinary practice and effective running of the practice. To work as a Clinical Coach to support the Nursing Team.

General Duties:

1. Ensure familiarity and adherence to the RCVS Code of professional conduct.
2. Ensure all nursing duties, including your own, are of the highest quality and that the practice runs smoothly and efficiently.
3. Assist the Veterinary Surgeons, in line with the code of professional conduct and schedule 3.
4. Liaise with and assist the Head Veterinary Nurse in maintaining best practice and the smooth running of the practice.
5. Liaise with the HVN to provide a clinical lead for the nursing team and deputise in their absence.
6. Support the HVN with training of Student Nurses and colleagues, and be a Clinical Coach in all aspects of nursing care.
7. Oversee and coordinate in-patient care and protocols, including client updates and photo updates.
8. Develop and maintain a high standard of cleanliness within the practice.
9. Oversee laboratory work, theatre practice, diagnostic imaging, and inpatient care.
10. Ensure all areas of the Veterinary Nursing role are completed correctly and efficiently following all guidelines.
11. Perform reception duties when required and deal with clients during patient admissions and discharges.
12. Assist in maintaining good stock control in all areas of the practice.
13. Organise Nurse clinics and appointments.
14. Advise clients on general pet healthcare.
15. Maintain equipment according to service contracts and ensure repairs of faulty equipment.
16. Ensure all documentation and patient records are maintained and medications are correctly supplied.
17. Delegate tasks responsibly, ensuring team members work within their legal remit and professional conduct.
18. Complete at least 15 hours of CPD annually, recorded per RCVS requirements.
19. Reflect on personal performance, identify strengths and weaknesses, and develop skills to maintain competence.

Principles of Practice:

1. Professional competence
2. Honesty and integrity
3. Independence and impartiality
4. Client confidentiality and trust
5. Professional accountability

Additional notes:

Support other practices within the Willows group as needed. Occasionally, colleagues may be seconded to other surgeries to facilitate cover, and cooperation in these logistics may be required.

About Beech House:

Beech House has been caring for pets around Warrington for nearly 30 years, with a friendly and skilled team dedicated to providing 'Gold Standard' veterinary care. We offer 24-hour emergency services, are RCVS Accredited, and have been voted among the top 25 vets in the UK for the last two years. We recently moved into new premises and care for dogs, cats, and small mammals, offering consultations 7 days a week.

Team and Schedule:

• 8 Vets
• 2 Practice Managers
• 1 HVN, 2 Senior Nurses (including this role), 5 RVNs, 5 SVNs, 3 Auxiliary/ACA's
• 6 Receptionists
• Out of Hours Team - 4 Vets, 4 RVNs

This is a full-time role, working 37.5 hours per week between 8 am and 8 pm, including a 1:4 weekend rota and night cover when required. It involves working bank holidays on a rota (about twice a year). The role includes supporting the Head Nurse and mentoring Student Nurses, preferably with Clinical Coach training or working towards a certificate.

Benefits include 30 days holiday (including bank holidays), a pension scheme, uniform, life insurance, enhanced maternity/paternity benefits, pet discounts, Healthshield benefits, a CPD allowance (£600/year), and a volunteering day annually.