Practice by students - regulations

Undertaking acts of veterinary surgery are an important part of a student vet's clinical training. Therefore, the acts that they are permitted to undertake are set out in the 'Veterinary Surgeons (Practice by Students) (Amendment) Regulations 1993'.

The Regulations state that students may:

• examine animals and carry out diagnostic tests under the direction of a registered veterinary surgeon,
• administer treatment under the supervision of a registered veterinary surgeon, and
• perform surgical operations under the direct and continuous supervision of a registered veterinary surgeon.

We have interpreted these as follows:

• 'Direction' means that the veterinary surgeon instructs the student on the tests to be administered but is not necessarily present.
• 'Supervision' means that the veterinary surgeon is present on the premises and able to respond to a request for assistance if needed.
• 'Direct and continuous supervision' means that the veterinary surgeon is present and giving the student his/her undivided attention.
   

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