What Is a Registered Veterinary Nurse (RVN) – And Why Are They So Vital to Your Practice?

April 30, 2025

What Does a Registered Veterinary Nurse (RVN) Do?

Registered Veterinary Nurses (RVNs) are a vital part of any veterinary team. Highly trained and regulated by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS), RVNs work alongside veterinary surgeons to provide expert nursing care for sick animals and educate pet owners on preventive healthcare.

Whether in a general practice, referral centre, or specialist clinic, RVNs combine clinical skill with compassionate care to improve animal welfare every single day.

Key Responsibilities of an RVN

RVNs wear many hats in a typical day. Their responsibilities often include:

  • Monitoring anaesthesia during surgical procedures
  • Administering medication and injections
  • Assisting in diagnostic tests such as x-rays or blood sampling
  • Providing post-operative care and inpatient support
  • Educating owners on pet nutrition, post-op care, and disease prevention
  • Running nurse clinics for vaccinations, weight management, dental care and more

Their technical knowledge is matched by a deep empathy and commitment to animal wellbeing.

What Qualifications Does an RVN Need?

To become an RVN in the UK, candidates must:

  1. Complete an RCVS-approved Level 3 Diploma or Degree in Veterinary Nursing
  2. Undertake a placement in a registered training practice
  3. Pass the RCVS Veterinary Nursing OSCEs (Objective Structured Clinical Examinations)
  4. Register with the RCVS and commit to ongoing CPD (Continuing Professional Development)

It’s a demanding but rewarding path that ensures all RVNs meet high standards of professionalism and competence.

Why Are RVNs in High Demand?

With increasing demand for veterinary services and a shortage of qualified professionals, RVNs are more important than ever. Practices are relying heavily on skilled nurses to:

  • Improve workflow efficiency
  • Enhance patient care
  • Reduce stress on veterinary surgeons
  • Help practices expand services

The value of a strong veterinary nurse cannot be overstated—they’re often the backbone of a successful, client-focused clinic.

How MedMatch Vets Can Help

At MedMatch Vets, we understand the critical role RVNs play—and the challenges practices face in hiring them. Whether you’re a veterinary nurse looking for your next opportunity or a practice needing reliable, qualified staff, we can help.

✅ Access to a growing network of qualified RVNs
✅ Tailored job matching to suit your experience, goals, and work-life balance
✅ Expert recruitment consultants who understand the veterinary sector inside out

Ready to Find (or Become) an RVN?

If you’re a practice looking to recruit a dedicated RVN, or a nurse ready for a new chapter in your career, we’re here to help.

👉 Visit MedMatch Vets or contact our team today to learn more.