Veterinary nurses ' confidence in monitoring brachycephalic dogs under general anaesthesia
DOI: https:// doi. org / 10.56496 / ORCI1672
Amy Sheppard, BSc( Hons), RVN
ENVELOPE amy _ wootton123 @ hotmail. co. uk
Amy gained a first-class Bachelor of Science degree in veterinary nursing from Hartpury University. In her final year she researched brachycephalic breeding and anaesthesia, which are particular areas of interest to her. Since graduating, Amy has been working in small animal practice, where she enjoys the variety that veterinary nursing brings, particularly building strong relationships with clients during consultations. She also enjoys monitoring a variety of species under anaesthesia and being a clinical coach.
Hannah Chial, BSc( Hons), RVN, ISFM CertFN
ENVELOPE hannah. chial @ hartpury. ac. uk
Since qualifying in 2017, Hannah has worked as an RVN and deputy head nurse in various practices in the Bristol area. During this time, she completed a certificate in feline nursing and was a clinical coach of SVNs from institutions such as Hartpury University. This prompted her move into higher education in 2021, which includes supervising dissertation students with their research projects. Since then, she has completed a postgraduate certificate in higher education and an academic professional apprenticeship.
ABSTRACT Brachycephalic dogs face elevated anaesthetic risks, requiring tailored protocols. However, limited research exists on veterinary nurses’( VNs’) confidence in monitoring these breeds. This study surveyed VNs in the UK who regularly monitor these dogs under general anaesthesia; 359 valid responses were statistically analysed.
Significant differences in confidence were detected between VNs with different qualification routes( p = 0.011), practice settings( p = 0.001) and lengths of time qualified( p < 0.001). Significant correlations were identified between the frequency of monitoring brachycephalic breeds and VNs ' confidence. A significant difference in confidence when monitoring brachycephalic breeds compared with non-brachycephalic breeds was evident( p < 0.001), suggesting that breed has an influence on VNs ' confidence.
Thematic analysis highlighted that financial constraints and staff shortages hinder protocol development. Most respondents expressed satisfaction with existing protocols, though these are typically adapted for brachycephalics, not purpose-built. Further research is warranted to refine anaesthetic care for these patients.
Keywords brachycephalic, anaesthesia, anaesthetic, protocols, confidence, experience
32 Veterinary Nursing Journal