In-discussion with Rach

What inspired you to specialise in neurology as a veterinary nurse, and how has this area of expertise enriched your career?

I was inspired to become a neurology nurse as I like the regular interaction with inpatients and providing physiotherapy. I also liked the idea of keeping on top of my anaesthetic skills by monitoring MRIs and other procedures. My role allows me to keep up with all my nursing skills and it has enriched my career. I now have in-depth knowledge in a particular area, which enables me to talk about neurological diseases and processes to owners and fellow colleagues.

Can you share a particularly challenging or rewarding case you've encountered while working in neurology?

We had a particularly challenging case with a dog who developed priapism (a condition where the penis won't go back into its sheath) and needed additional care and attention to prevent it from getting worse. Eventually after a few weeks of medication and monitoring, the condition resolved itself and the patient did well.

Neurological conditions can be complex. How do you assist and support pet owners in understanding and managing their pets' neurological issues?

I assist and support pet owners in understanding and managing their pets’ neurological issues by undertaking CPD, this could either be online, or through seminars that our neurologists provide for us in-house. I benefit greatly from these – it allows me to pass on knowledge to owners to help reassure them.

As a veterinary nurse specialising in neurology, what specific skills or techniques have you found most valuable in providing excellent care for patients with neurological conditions?

The skills and techniques I have found most valuable in providing excellent care for patients with neurological conditions are physiotherapy as this forms a huge part of the neurology nurse role and really helps to aid our patient’s recovery. A lot of our neurological patients can often panic if they go “off” their back legs and I find that just sitting with them and providing TLC helps me to bond with them and nurse them more effectively.

Neurological patients often require ongoing care. How do you provide support to pet owners in managing long-term treatment plans and ensuring the well-being of their pets?

I provide support to owners in managing long-term treatment plans and ensure their wellbeing by giving thorough and detailed discharge instructions. I also catch up with pet owners after discharge to provide support over the phone once their pet is home. This can be very reassuring and beneficial for pet owners as it is a very daunting and overwhelming process taking these patients home as they require a lot of care.

What do you enjoy most about working at Pride Veterinary Referrals?

I enjoy working at Pride Veterinary Referrals as we have excellent facilities and diagnostic tools. There is also a wealth of information and experience available from a multidisciplinary team which allows me to seek out advice and help from others.

What do you like to do to relax after work?

I like to relax after work by watching films and TV series, and at the weekends take my dog for some nice walks in the countryside, it really helps with my mental state.