We caught up with Clinical Nurse Lead Fran to delve into the world of veterinary nursing in a referral setting and to share more about her specific role at our referral hospital.
Job title: Clinical Nurse Lead
Team: Nurse management
Joined Fitzpatrick Referrals: 2019
“Watching the people around me do incredible work every day makes me so proud to be a part of this team.”
Registered veterinary nurse Fran
What attracted you to a career in referrals and to apply to Fitzpatrick Referrals specifically?
Fran: I really loved the idea of working in a big team, which is something you can only really experience in referral. It’s like having a family away from home. I also get to work on some very interesting cases that I might otherwise not have.
Did you have any worries about working in referrals? Is it what you expected?
Fran: I was a little apprehensive at first as the nurses around me all seemed so knowledgeable and I was worried I wouldn’t be good enough. But the education and support I received has quickly turned me into one of those nurses that I used to look up to.
Tell us about your current role and what it involves
Fran: My role as Clinical Nurse Lead is very diverse, which is what I love. I get to carry on doing clinical work, such as doing anaesthetics and spending time with the patients.
I also have the other side of my job where I get to work closely with the nurses and VCAs that I line manage on a personal level. I feel really fulfilled when I think I have made a positive difference in an individual’s day-to-day experience at work.
Tell us three things that you’ve gained since working at Fitzpatrick Referrals?
Fran: I have gained an incredible amount of knowledge in anaesthesia that I didn’t think I would. I have become a much better nurse having worked here and getting the support of our anaesthesia team. I have also improved my leadership skills through the years as my role has changed. I have had lots of support with this, and my confidence as a nurse and as a person has massively improved.
How has your role developed since joining?
Fran: Over the last five years, I have gone from a wards nurse, rotational nurse, prep nurse, senior nurse and now clinical nurse lead. The progression opportunities I have been given have really helped me streamline where I want my career to go.
What makes you proud to work at Fitzpatrick Referrals?
Fran: The people. Watching the people around me do incredible work every day makes me so proud to be a part of this team.
Any advice you’d like to give to veterinary nurses considering moving into referrals?
Fran: Take the leap! I think you will be surprised at how much it will change your skill set and mindset as a veterinary nurse.
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