The newly credentialed veterinary technician: perceptions, realities, and career challenges

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Occupational Health
• Psychology

Background:

• Previous research indicates high burnout and distress in credentialed veterinary technicians compared to registered nurses.
• Understanding the early-career experience is crucial for identifying factors contributing to stress.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the factors contributing to stress and burnout in early-career veterinary technicians.
• To gain insights into the perceptions and challenges faced by veterinary technicians.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative focus group study involving 2-5 participants per group.
• Four 90-minute semi-structured interviews were conducted.
• Focus group recordings were transcribed and analyzed to identify key themes.

Main Results:

• Two major categories emerged: 'The Credentialing Journey' and 'Challenges with the Career'.
• Seven themes were identified, including credentialing perceptions, challenges for newly credentialed technicians, team dynamics ('Us vs. Us'), ethical dilemmas, work environment, utilization, and career longevity.

Conclusions:

• Findings can inform interventions to improve veterinary technician mental health and wellbeing.
• Educational focus on team-based medicine, leadership, and conflict management may reduce team conflict.
• Improved utilization and awareness of veterinary technician value can enhance career satisfaction.