“Evidence-based veterinary nursing” is a phrase you’ve probably heard a lot in CPD sessions, journal articles, or team meetings. But what does it actually mean in the day-to-day life of a Registered Veterinary Nurse (RVN)? More importantly, how can it shape the future of your veterinary nursing career?
The answer isn’t just about research papers. It’s about clinical confidence, patient outcomes, and making sure your care is based on the best possible information. Here’s what evidence-based veterinary nursing is all about, why it matters, and how you can develop your evidence-based practice:
What is evidence-based veterinary nursing?
Evidence-based veterinary nursing means using a combination of the best available scientific evidence, your own clinical expertise, and the patient’s individual needs and circumstances. Rather than following tradition or habits (saying “we’ve always done it this way”), evidence-based veterinary nursing involves asking questions like:
- What does the current research say?
- How does this apply to my patient?
- What outcome am I aiming for – and how can I measure it?
Fundamentally, evidence-based veterinary nursing is about making informed decisions, and being able to explain and justify them with clarity and confidence.
Why does it matter for RVNs?
Evidence-based veterinary nursing improves outcomes, reduces errors, and helps veterinary nurses stay current in a rapidly changing field.
For RVNs, adopting an evidence-based mindset means delivering better, safer care, being able to challenge outdated protocols, contributing more meaningfully to clinical discussions, and feeling more confident in your role – especially when taking on advanced duties. It also supports client communication. When you can back up your nursing recommendations with evidence and clinical reasoning, clients are more likely to trust your guidance.
Studying evidence-based veterinary nursing
Veterinary nursing isn’t always set up to support evidence-based thinking. Time pressures, limited access to journals, or lack of confidence in interpreting research can all get in the way. That’s where structured education can make a real difference.
Our BSc (Hons) Veterinary Nursing Top-up Degree, delivered in partnership with Middlesex University, covers research literacy and evidence-based practice. Through flexible, online study, RVNs learn more about:
- Professional body expectations
- Literature searching, literature critique and use of frameworks and checklists
- Analysis and interpretation of evidence to inform practice
- Clinical audits and governance
- Reflection and reflective models
- Academic writing, referencing and journal clubs
These skills don’t just help you study, they transform how you work. Being able to justify your decisions, improve patient care, and contribute to change makes you a respected, resilient and valued member of the team. It also opens the door to specialist roles, leadership positions, and teaching or mentoring others. In a time where the veterinary profession is evolving fast, the ability to engage with evidence is essential.
Evidence-based veterinary nursing is about being empowered to ask better questions, make smarter decisions, and improve the care you give every day. If you’re ready to deepen your knowledge and grow in confidence as a veterinary nurse, the BSc (Hons) Veterinary Nursing Top-up Degree could be the next step that brings it all together.