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Antimicrobial resistance
Research has shown that veterinary nurses have a much higher level of infection from methicillin-resistant strains of bacteria than the general UK population.
We have reached crisis point

"It's a really scary situation at the moment!" was Matt Barnard's opening gambit as he spoke at the BVNA Congress on the subject of antimicrobial resistance (AMR).

He highlighted that AMR is present in every country in the world and he gave some dramatic examples – for example, carbapenem is no longer effective against Klebsiella pneumonia in hospitals and resistant strains of TB are increasing at an exponential rate worldwide.

Pharmaceutical companies do not have any real incentive to develop novel antibiotics because of the time that it takes to research, develop and licence them; the short time during which they are licensed exclusively before generic versions emerge; and the relatively small market globally for this class of medicine. Governments are particularly poor at providing realistic funding for antimicrobial products too, apparently preferring to fund high-profile, vote-catching projects.

"As nurses," Matt said, "we have to be aware of the dynamic exchange of resistant strains of bacteria that occurs in veterinary practice – from patient to patient, from the environment to the patient, and, importantly, between nurses and the patients." Research has shown that veterinary nurses have a much higher level of infection from methicillin-resistant strains of bacteria than the general UK population. It is now an occupational hazard.

Barrier nursing is, therefore, essential. It may be time consuming but it is critical and must be given top priority and the time that it needs. "Don't let the vets rush you," said Matt as he spent time with the audience going through all the items in practice that harbour infection and are agents for its spread.

In summary, Matt explained that veterinary nurses have a duty to:
• improve client awareness and understanding of the problems associated with AMR
• strengthen their knowledge (and that of their clients) and adopt an evidence-based approach to practice
• reduce the incidence of cross-infection in practice through effective sanitation and barrier nursing
• optimise the use of antibiotics.

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Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.