First audit of veterinary nursing CPD

The RCVS has launched its first annual audit of continuing professional development (CPD) for Registered Veterinary Nurses (RVNs).

RVNs commit to keeping their professional skills and knowledge up to date and must meet a target of 45 hours of CPD over a three-year period.

Letters have been sent to a nationwide sample of RVNs to enable the College to monitor the level and nature of CPD being undertaken. Around 500 RVNs will be asked to submit their last two years’ RCVS CPD Record Cards for review; some may then be followed up with requests for more information.

“Maintaining CPD is key to improving standards of nursing care, developing the pool of veterinary nursing knowledge and enabling VNs to further their own careers,” stresses Andrea Jeffery, Chairman of the VN Council. “I would urge all veterinary nurses who have received a letter to please send in their completed Record Cards by 1 May this year.”

CPD Record Cards, which also include guidance notes on what can be counted towards CPD, are posted annually to RVNs. They are also available to download from RCVSonline at http://www.rcvs.org.uk/registration/about-the-vn-register/.

As with veterinary surgeons, poor compliance with CPD obligations would be taken into account in any complaint arising against an RVN. Completed CPD Cards are also considered as part of a Practice Standards Scheme inspection.

Any queries regarding the audit should be directed to the Veterinary Nursing Department on 020 7202 0788.