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  • Vets
    • Accelerated Emergency Program ENROL ANYTIME
    • Small Animal Dermatology Online Learning 2022
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      • ANZCVS
      • Subject Guidelines
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Medical Nursing Online Learning
Starts 1 July 2022!
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Medical Nursing Online Learning

Veterinary medicine has advanced significantly during recent years.

This program has been designed to provide Veterinary Nurses, Technicians and Veterinary Paraprofessionals with the opportunity to access relevant and up to date knowledge of small animal nursing of medical cases and to use this knowledge to improve the treatment given to canine and feline patients in practice.

The certificate program will:

  • Enhance your clinical skills and knowledge
  • Increase your confidence and job satisfaction
  • Enable you to gain an achievable and recognised ISVPS qualification

Course Highlights

  • 8 varied modules - Covering key nursing topics in medical nursing delivered over 8 months (one module released every other month)
  • Support and guidance from a Module Tutor who is a specialist in internal medicine - The specialist in the subject area will provide online support during each module and will be available to answer all your questions
  • Multiple learning processes - Presentations, written notes, interactive quizzes, multiple choice question writing and exercises which test your knowledge as you work
  • Discussion forum - A discussion forum for conversation, debate and sharing cases with your peers and Module Tutors
  • Interactive and engaging modules - Which allow you to absorb the learning materials in an online environment
  • 100% online - Giving you access 24/7 wherever you are
  • Regular assessments - Pre-module and post-module assessments encourage you to reflect on your learning and evaluate your progress
  • Dedicated Programme - Coordinator A dedicated Programme Coordinator who will support you every step of the way
  • Four sessions per month - Each module consists of four sessions spread over one month. Sessions comprise separate lessons to work through at your own pace. The fourth week of the month will provide reflective sessions and during the months when the module is not running, training in study skills and revision materials will be provided
  • Nurse study skills area - Additional learning on topics such as academic writing, reflection and revision techniques.
Medical Nursing Online Learning
  • Dates: 1 July 2022 - 31 August 2023
  • Format: Online Learning
  • Price: AU $4,850 incl GST
  • Qualifications: NCert / VTCert and VPPCert
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Medical Nursing Online Learning Improve International Australia
Medical Nursing Online Learning Improve International Australia

Medical Nursing Online Learning Modules

Module 1: Anaesthesia

1 July 2022

Key learning objectives

At the end of the module delegate should be able to:

  • Review acid/base balance, the practical application of blood products and explain when different fluid replacement options should be used. Demonstrate the ability to perform all types of fluid administration calculations.
  • Explain the importance of client consent forms, patient anaesthesia records and be able to complete both correctly.
  • Obtain knowledge of basic through to advanced patient monitoring and the pros and cons of multi-parameter monitoring for specific cases. Describe and explain abnormal capnography and pulse oximetry waveforms and suggest options to improve them.
  • Understand the use of different pre-anaesthetic medication, induction and maintenance agents, explaining the advantages and disadvantages of each in specific cases.
  • Identify different types of endotracheal tubes and their use explaining the advantages and disadvantages of each. Demonstrate the skill of intubating easy & more difficult patients

Module 2: Analgesia

1 September 2022

Key Learning Objectives

At the end of the modules delegates should be able to :

  • Appreciate the pathophysiology of pain and be able to identify pain in different species using pain scoring methods.
  • Explain the different classes of analgesia, including opioids, NSAIDs, local anaesthetics and other agents and their pharmacology and appreciate their different delivery methods for specific patients using the multi-modal approach.
  • Pre-emptive analgesia theory and practical approaches to achieving it
  • Outline the use of analgesia in medical patients for chronic and palliative use.
  • Describe appropriate analgesic agents for the use of CRI, when and how these should be used/monitored and be able to perform a CRI calculation.
  • Demonstrate different intravenous catheterisation techniques including central venous catheterisation.
  • Be able to place a central venous line

Module 3: Principles- The Clinic

1 November 2022

Key Learning Objectives

At the end of the module delegates should be able to;

  • Discuss how hospital layout affects the running of a clinic in relation to infection control and the importance of specific patient areas on patient recovery.
  • Understand how hospital acquired infections are obtained and spread, as well as the different types of infection.
  • Distinguish between the terms of disinfection and sterilization and how these techniques are implemented within the hospital setting.
  • Gain knowledge of the importance of the appropriate selection and use of medical equipment for specific diagnostic procedures and patient monitoring.
  • Explain how to store, maintain and prepare the above equipment.
  • Appreciate the importance of hospital Health & Safety.
  • Be able to identify potential risks and hazards within the medical setting and have the knowledge of how to reduce these risks.

Module 4: Principles - The Patient

1 January 2023

Key Learning Objectives

At the end of the module delegates should be able to;

  • Discuss the importance of daily patient assessment and record keeping of the medical patient via charting systems. Be able to outline physical examination techniques and explain their relevance.
  • Outline the importance of the specific nursing requirements of inpatients with specific pathophysiology and life stage. Be able to explain the importance of nursing care plans and their use.
  • Obtain knowledge of the role of nutrition in the medical patient, identifying the advantages and disadvantages of both enteral and parenteral administration and how to manage these cases within the clinic.
  • Select the appropriate patient preparation technique and positioning required for specific medical procedures.
  • Identify medical diseases and procedures that result in an outpatient assessment and the significance of outpatient monitoring.
  • Become familiar with identifying medical complications and consolidate your knowledge of how to minimise them.
  • Explain the set up and maintenance of endoscopes and when they are most useful as part of a diagnostic work-up
  • Appreciate the importance of clinical governance & client communication within the veterinary clinic.

Module 5: Imaging

1 March 2023

Key Learning Objectives

At the end of the module delegates should be able to;

  • Explain the different radiographic techniques available, their pros and cons and uses in specific situations
  • Evaluate radiographic image quality to ensure diagnostic radiographs are available for interpretation and improve your basic film reading, identifying radiographic artefacts and faults.
  • Revise contrast studies, becoming familiar with their use and the specific equipment required to perform them
  • Understand the principles of ultrasound imaging and be familiar with how to set up and maintain the ultrasound machine and probes
  • Identify specific equipment and materials required for ultrasound-guided procedures
  • Employ the principles of FAST scanning to triage emergency cases
  • Review advanced imaging (CT/MRI and scintigraphy) and their uses in diagnosis and monitoring medical cases

Module 6: Oncology

1 May 2023

Key Learning Objectives

At the end of the modules delegates should be able to;

  • Discuss the biology of cancer and paraneoplastic disease
  • Describe the principles, challenges and ethics of cancer treatment in dogs and cats
  • Outline the options for local management of tumours including surgery and radiation therapy
  • Explain how systemic management of tumours can be achieved through chemotherapy, immunotherapy and targeted therapy
  • Select appropriate diagnostic methods for the investigation and management of: Lymphoma; mast cell tumours; bone tumours; splenic tumours; oral tumours and selected other common tumours
  • Familiarise yourself with specific feline tumours
  • Identify and understand oncological emergencies
  • Evaluate the unique challenges of starting an oncology clinic – practicalities of administering chemotherapy and management of clients
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the significance of drug safety, staff and owner protection

Module 7: Body Systems

1 July 2022

Key Learning Objectives

At the end of the module delegates should be able to;

  • Appreciate clinical assessment and how it that can be used to narrow down location of a respiratory problem
  • Explain the typical presentations, treatment and follow up required for a variety of respiratory diseases in small animal practice including feline asthma/bronchitis, chronic canine bronchitis, lungworm, pneumonia and nasal disease.
  • Discuss the common signs of acute and chronic gastrointestinal disease and logical approaches to investigating the underlying causes
  • Describe the most common gastrointestinal diseases and how to treat and/or manage them successfully.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the complexities of liver disease in the cat and dog
  • Compare pancreatitis in cats and dogs in relation to presentation and treatment options
  • Recognise the importance of the classification of chronic kidney disease in relation to management and monitoring
  • Become familiar with the diagnostic, therapeutic and monitoring challenges of a variety of endocrine diseases including those associated with the pancreas, adrenal and thyroid glands.

Module 8: Medical Pharmacology

1 August 2023

Key Learning Objectives

At the end of the module delegates should be able to;

  • Appreciate the challenges involved in getting the best out of laboratory tests including sampling methods and test selection
  • Describe a general approach to all poisoning cases including what resources are available, what diagnostic tests may help and how to treat common toxicities
  • Discuss rational drug use– consider how we protect antibiotic use, other considerations in therapeutic trials in medicine cases and monitoring for side effects
  • Consider traditional UK infectious diseases – how they are diagnosed, managed and treatment options
  • Become familiar with infectious diseases new to the UK and discuss the challenges in diagnosis and treatment of these conditions
  • Describe how antibody testing can be useful in vaccination protocols
  • Be familiar with WSAVA vaccination guidelines

*Please note: Module order may be subject to change

Course Tutors

Medical Nursing Online Learning Improve International Australia

Abby Caine – VetMB BA CertVDI DipECVDI MRCVS

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Abby Caine – VetMB BA CertVDI DipECVDI MRCVS Collapse
Medical Nursing Online Learning Improve International Australia

Laura Jones (Nee Rosewell) – BSc(Hons) DipAVN(Small Animal) ISFMDipFN VTS(SAIM) RVN

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Laura Jones (Nee Rosewell) – BSc(Hons) DipAVN(Small Animal) ISFMDipFN VTS(SAIM) RVN Collapse
Medical Nursing Online Learning Improve International Australia

Nicola Grint – BVSc PhD CertVA DVA DiplECVAA MRCVS

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Nicola Grint – BVSc PhD CertVA DVA DiplECVAA MRCVS Collapse
Medical Nursing Online Learning Improve International Australia

Owen Davies – MA VetMB MVetMed MANZCVS(SAM) DACVIM(Oncology) MRCVS RCVS & American Specialist in Veterinary Oncology

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Owen Davies – MA VetMB MVetMed MANZCVS(SAM) DACVIM(Oncology) MRCVS RCVS & American Specialist in Veterinary Oncology Collapse
Medical Nursing Online Learning Improve International Australia

Paula Diana Valienta – DVM DipECVIM-CA MRCVS

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Paula Diana Valienta – DVM DipECVIM-CA MRCVS Collapse
Medical Nursing Online Learning Improve International Australia

Rory Bell – MVB DSAM DipECVIM-CA FHEA MRCVS

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Rory Bell – MVB DSAM DipECVIM-CA FHEA MRCVS Collapse

Payment Options

Full Payment
VetEdPay - Payment Plan
Booking Terms & Conditions
Full Payment

Full Payment: Total payable AU $4,850 incl GST

All prices are inclusive of compulsory 10% GST and ISVPS registration & examination fees

VetEdPay - Payment Plan

Payment Plan through VetEdPay* (AU $4,850 + $95 administration fee)

All prices are inclusive of compulsory 10% GST and ISVPS registration & exmamination fees. 

*Please note: By selecting this option for payment you are connecting with VetEdPay, an external finance provider. VetEdPay services are only available to Australian and New Zealand residents.

Booking Terms & Conditions

Terms and Conditions apply to all bookings.

Please find the terms and conditions here.

Enrol Now

FAQ

Who can enrol on the NCert/VTCert/VPPCert Certificate Distance Learning Programs?

These programs are postgraduate qualifications and require a sound knowledge of veterinary anatomy, physiology and nursing prior to entry. 

  • NCert – you must be a RCVS Registered Veterinary Nurse, or equivalent (e.g VCI – Veterinary Council of Ireland) if you are not practising in the UK. Proof of qualification will be required for eligibility. 
  • VTCert – you must hold a recognised Veterinary Technician qualification. Proof of qualification will be required 
  • VPPCert  – you must have been working in a veterinary environment for two years and provide evidence that you have been involved within the discipline which is being taught on the particular programme for which you are seeking access. This will require proof of employment with reference, current CV and self-certification 

What does the NCert/VTCert/VPP Certificate qualification consist of?

  • Complete the full online structured program 
  • Case report or clinical audit (depending on the program followed); 2,500 words, requires academic writing and referencing 
  • An online applied knowledge examination (OAKE)
  • A one-hour online examination consisting of 25 Multiple Choice Questions (MCQ)
  • ISVPS are responsible for invigilation of the exam using an independent invigilation company 
  • Complete all of the evaluation surveys which consists of answering 5 MCQ’s before each module and 5 MCQs after each session.  

How do I register for the NCert/VTCert/VPPCert qualification via Distance Learning Programs?

Registration for the examination (and associated written assessment) is optional, and delegates undertaking an Improve International modular training programme can choose to attend the course without undertaking any assessment. Delegates choosing NOT to undertake any assessment receive acknowledgement of their ‘Continuing Professional Development’ (CPD) hours from Improve International but ARE NOT eligible to receive the NCert/VTCert/VPPCert in their chosen discipline.  

Registration is via a unique registration link provided at the start of the course via the online learning platform Moodle.  Upon registration, you can anticipate email confirmation. (Please add english@isvps.org to your contacts to ensure you receive correspondence from ISVPS).  

The confirmation email contains a password to access the ISVPS ‘Candidates’ Area’, which is separate to Improve International’s Learning Management System (LMS), ‘Moodle’. In addition to providing access to assessment guidance, the ISVPS ‘Candidates’ Area’ also permits candidates to submit their written assessment to ISVPS anonymously. 

When do examinations take place for the NCert/VTCert/VPPCert and do I need to travel to take them?

The examination NCert/VTCert/VPPCert takes place every November by remote invigilation. You will therefore require access to a computer or laptop (not a tablet) meeting the following requirements: 

  • A Windows v7.0+ or Mac10.8+ operating system 
  • 4GB of RAM 
  • Intel Core i3 (or equivalent) 
  • A working webcam that can be used to scan the room 
  • Microphone and speakers and Internet connectivity with a continuous internet speed of 516kbps (minimum) 

 Using remote invigilation, you can take the examination in any private, quiet room and therefore you are not required to travel.

What does the examination consist of?

The examination will consist of two 1-hour examinations. A 25 MCQ exam and an online applied knowledge examination (OAKE). 

How many CPD hours will this program provide?

The program is worth a minimum of 100 CPD hours (approximately 48 hours of delivered sessions and 52 hours self-study time).

How much self-study is required?

In addition to the 2500-word clinical audit assessment, we suggest that delegates spend an additional 52 hours of self-study. You will also require access to journals and articles via an internet library service (e.g. RCVS Knowledge; PubMed; Google scholar) which may incur an additional registration fee.  

Will there be any additional costs involved?

The examination fee is included in the full course price however those delegates that require to resit any part of the assessments will be subject to additional assessment fees which are paid directly to ISVPS. You will also be provided with a suggested reading list where there may be additional cost of books and articles depending on the individual preferences.

Is there an option to defer the program?

Yes, we fully appreciated that sometimes life itself gets in the way. Therefore, delegates are able to defer the program for a maximum of three years from their start date.  

Examination candidates are permitted one deferral from the time they become eligible to take the examination. Further deferrals are taken from the candidate’s three ‘attempts’ to pass the summative assessments (please see question 10, ‘What happens if I fail an ISVPS assessment?’). For example, an ISVPS candidate can choose to use two deferrals but then has only two ‘attempts’ remaining. Please note, candidates have four years from course completion to satisfy ISVPS assessment requirements for the award.

How can I track my progress in the program?

Progress of the completion of your module and program are tracked in different ways.

Each module consists of 9 interactive lessons including reflective study which may involve case studies, MCQ writing and calculation practice during week 4, depending on the specific module. The interactive lessons will track and remember your progress whilst you complete it. When you return to a specific lesson or case study, you will return to the page that you last visited.

Once a lesson is completed, a tick will appear next to the lesson icon on the module course page. You will also see a progress indicator at the top right-hand corner of the course page and a more detailed Progress Bar in the collapsible side menu on the left.

Upon completing all 9 lessons and the 2 case studies, you will be awarded a Digital Badge, recognising your achievement. As you progress through the programme, badges will be awarded at 1/4, 1/2 and 3/4 completion stages.

What happens if I fail an ISVPS assessment?

Candidates have three ‘attempts’ to pass the summative assessments. Candidates are ONLY required to repeat the unsuccessful component (for example, if you were to fail the examination—but pass the written assessment—you are only required to repeat the examination, and vice versa). Please note, there is a nominal administration charge to re-submit the written assessment or re-sit the examination. Assessment dates are annual (i.e. your next opportunity to submit the written assessment or take the examination is in the following year). 

What qualifications are needed for taking the program if coming from another non-European country?

Proof of qualifications as awarded in the country of origin will be required prior to enrolment on the programme. These are required by ISVPS for exam registration. Please do contact us to discuss your eligibility for further information.

When is the learning content available for each module?

Modules are released every other month. During the months when a module is not running reflective exercises and study skills will be made available.

During the month when a module is live 3 lessons will be made available within the first week followed by a further 3 lessons in week two  and week three. During this time delegates will have access to an open forum which is tutor mentored.

Do I have to access the program via a specific browser?

Even though you may access our world-leading Learning Management System via any browser, it is recommended that you choose a browser that supports integrated HTML editor.  Google Chrome or Firefox on a Windows operating system, and Chrome, Firefox or Safari on a Mac system.

While using Internet Explorer (Edge) should not cause any issue, it has been reported that some security settings and adherence to W3C standards prevent the browser from operating in some instances.  If you experience a problem please try one of the other browsers before contacting Improve for additional support.

What additional learning resources are available?

  • Notes to support every lesson 
  • Reading list 
  • Module Tutor (diploma holder and or above in their field) 
  • Improve International Programme Tutor 
  • Discussion Forum 
  • Pre and post-module questions 
  • Reflective sessions incorporating multiple-choice writing and study skills 
  • Summary videos at the end of each week 

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About Improve

Established as a veterinary education company 21 years ago, by a dedicated group of veterinary surgeons in the UK. It has now expanded across the globe with offices in the UK, Europe and around the world. 

Our mission is to offer top quality training to veterinarians in Australia and New Zealand.

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