Eligibility
This position is suitable for veterinary surgeons who:
- Graduated from veterinary school in Summer 2021 or later.
- Are commencing their first veterinary role in clinical practice.
- Have not yet completed the Veterinary Graduate Development Programme (VetGDP).
The role is also open to:
- Overseas-qualified veterinarians, or UK-qualified veterinarians returning to the UK from overseas, who have less than 18 months of experience in a role comparable to the position they are undertaking in the UK that are eligible for working in the UK and do not require a skilled worker visa.
- Veterinary surgeons rejoining the RCVS Register after an absence of five years or more.
Role Overview
The role is based on an average of 40 hours per week, worked across a variable five-week rota. Shifts include daytime, twilight and overnight responsibilities, with bank holidays and weekend commitments typically occurring on a 1-in-4 or 1-in-5 basis.
The New Graduate Veterinary Surgeon plays an essential role in supporting the veterinary and nursing teams in delivering outstanding emergency and critical care services. The position offers broad clinical exposure and hands-on experience in emergency medicine, inpatient management, anaesthesia, surgery, and client care, alongside the administrative responsibilities necessary for the effective operation of the service.
Working under the guidance and supervision of designated VetGDP Advisers, the successful candidate will progress through the Veterinary Graduate Development Programme by working towards agreed Entrustable Professional Activities (EPAs). Relevant EPAs will be selected collaboratively with the VetGDP Adviser at the commencement of employment.
Clinical Responsibilities
- Review, interpret and summarise patient histories in preparation for consultations.
- Perform initial triage assessments of emergency patients.
- Conduct consultations under the supervision of senior veterinary surgeons.
- Prepare consultation notes and clinical reports for review by a supervising clinician.
- Perform and interpret diagnostic laboratory tests.
- Contribute to the formulation of diagnostic and treatment plans under direction and supervision.
Inpatient Care
- Work collaboratively with the nursing team to provide high-quality care for hospitalised patients.
- Participate in patient monitoring, treatment administration, clinical assessments and ongoing case management.
- Ensure accurate and timely communication regarding patient progress and treatment plans.
Anaesthesia
The successful candidate will participate in the anaesthetic management of patients from both Lighthouse Veterinary Specialists and Optivet Referrals.
Responsibilities include:
- Performing pre-anaesthetic assessments and clinical examinations.
- Developing anaesthetic protocols and perioperative plans.
- Inducing, maintaining and monitoring anaesthesia under appropriate supervision.
- Performing locoregional anaesthetic techniques and neuromuscular blocks where appropriate.
- Managing patient recovery and ensuring safe postoperative care.
- Conducting clinical handovers and communicating effectively with colleagues.
- Preparing clear and comprehensive postoperative management plans.
Surgical Support
Assist with the delivery of emergency surgical procedures.
- Prepare and position patients for surgery.
- Perform basic surgical procedures under the direct supervision of senior veterinary surgeons.
- Discuss and confirm postoperative care plans with the supervising clinician.
- Ensure all clinical instructions, treatment plans and surgical notes are accurately documented within the patient record.
Interdepartmental Collaboration
- Maintain effective communication with colleagues across the hospital, including senior A&E Veterinary Surgeons, Nurses, Veterinary Care Assistants (VCAs), Reception, Diagnostic Imaging, Specialist Services, Client Care and other support teams.
- Provide timely responses to patient-related and client-related enquiries.
- Support a collaborative and patient-focused approach to clinical care.
Administrative Responsibilities
- Provide support to Reception and Client Care teams regarding patient queries.
- Assist with medication dispensing and prescription management.
- Support the completion and authorisation of insurance documentation.
- Ensure all patient records and clinical documentation are accurate, thorough and maintained to a high professional standard.
Professional Development
The New Graduate Veterinary Surgeon will actively engage with the VetGDP programme and associated learning opportunities, including:
- Regular meetings with their designated VetGDP Adviser.
- Completion of agreed Entrustable Professional Activities (EPAs).
- Participation in clinical discussions, case reviews and continuing professional development activities.
- Development of professional, clinical and communication skills in line with RCVS standards and expectations.
The rota operates on a five-week rotation. While rotas may vary according to service requirements.
This role offers an excellent opportunity for newly qualified veterinary surgeons to develop confidence and competence in emergency and critical care within a supportive multidisciplinary environment, while completing the Veterinary Graduate Development Programme and building a strong foundation for future clinical practice.
Contact
If you are interested in hearing more about this position, please email both: [email protected] and [email protected]
Pay: £38,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Free parking
- Life insurance
- On-site parking
Work Location: In person
