Expert Perspectives on Professional Standards Education for Veterinary Nurses: A Four-Round Fully Qualitative Delphi...

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Nursing Education
• Professional Standards in Healthcare
• Qualitative Research Methods

Background:

• Veterinary nurses in the UK aspire to professional recognition, with registration by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) being a key factor.
• Accreditation of UK preregistration veterinary nursing programs mandates professional standards education.
• The effectiveness of student preparation in applying the RCVS Code of Conduct and professional behaviors requires investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore educators' and service users' perceptions of student veterinary nurses' preparedness for professional practice.
• To identify key themes and develop consensus on essential elements for professional development in veterinary nursing.

Main Methods:

• A four-round qualitative Delphi method was employed.
• Fifteen expert participants were interviewed in the initial round.
• Thematic coding identified three overarching themes: personal/professional identity, teaching/learning experiences, and clinical/educational culture.

Main Results:

• Twenty-four statements were endorsed by the expert panel, highlighting the importance of role modeling and educator enthusiasm.
• Integration of professional standards and the RCVS Code of Conduct into clinical practice was perceived as inadequate.
• Clinical supervisors often lacked support, time, and remuneration, impacting their ability to guide students effectively.
• Concerns were raised about unprofessional behavior among senior staff and students' reluctance to report issues.

Conclusions:

• Positive role modeling is crucial and generally well-implemented, but clinical integration of professional standards needs improvement.
• Enhanced support and training for clinical supervisors are essential for effective professional standards education.
• Curriculum design should address the identified gaps, particularly in embedding the RCVS Code of Conduct into clinical settings and fostering a supportive reporting culture.