VNs and the LawWhat Would You Do?

Abstract

One contribution of 14 to a theme issue 'Challenges in the fight against neglected tropical diseases: a decade from the London Declaration on NTDs'.

Legal, ethical and professional issues for veterinary nurses

“…The veterinary nurse could plead that by providing the diazepam, she was acting in the best interest of the dog by relieving suffering as the dog stopped hitting its head on the floor, thereby preventing further injury. However, as supported by Welsh (2003) administering a POM-V is not seen as a first aid measure. Despite the nurse still breaking two acts of parliament in order to relieve the dog's suffering, the courts may take her good intentions into account.…”

“…This guide helps to establish the extent of what a veterinary nurse can and cannot do. This is a publication that has increased in size, Welsh (2003) identifies this as a guide that only consisted of two pages. The current 2010 publication is 54 pages in length, but only the first 14 pages identify the responsibilities of a veterinary nurse.…”