In this inspiring episode for Veterinary Nurse Awareness Month (VNAM), Hannah Capon is joined by Helen Silver-McMahon, a veterinary nurse turned human factors and patient safety specialist. Helen shares how her early interest in veterinary nursing led to a career focused on improving communication, teamwork, and wellbeing in veterinary settings. Together, they explore the essential role of effective communication in chronic pain management and how it impacts client satisfaction, team dynamics, and patient outcomes. With relatable stories and practical insights, the conversation encourages professionals to rethink the value of soft skills, explore new directions, and find joy in their veterinary careers.

Brief Bio

Helen is a Registered Veterinary Nurse with a background in surgical nursing and a passion for communication and human factors. After completing a master’s degree in Human Factors and Patient Safety, she co-founded Being Human, a training company focused on communication, team performance, and wellbeing in veterinary practice. Helen continues to consult on patient safety and champions a culture of empathy and open communication within vet teams.

Key Takeaways

1. Communication is a clinical skill – Helen emphasizes that communication directly affects patient outcomes, client compliance, and team morale.
2. Human factors influence everything – Veterinary teams must understand how environment, stress, and fatigue affect performance and safety.
3. Empathy leads to better care – Creating psychological safety for clients and colleagues strengthens trust, collaboration, and results.
4. Personal coping strategies matter – From emotional resets between consults to leaving mental “baggage” at the door, small habits can improve wellbeing.
5. Vet nursing opens doors – Helen’s journey proves that vet nurses can diversify into new roles, from education and coaching to systems change and consulting.

Relevant Links

Being Human – Helen’s training initiative - https://being-human.org.uk
Messy Communication Paper by Ellie Russell (referenced) - https://bvajournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/vetr.1068

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Stay tuned to learn how early detection can make a significant difference in managing OA in younger dogs.

In celebration of Veterinary Nurse Awareness Month (VNAM), Hannah Capon is joined by Donna Wills, a registered veterinary nurse with over 20 years of experience. Donna shares her inspiring journey, highlighting the flexibility, passion, and diversity that veterinary nursing offers. She discusses her path from general practice to rehabilitation and physiotherapy, emphasizing how nurses can carve out unique career paths within the veterinary field. Donna also talks about the importance of perseverance, self-belief, and the power of saying “yes” to new opportunities, even when it feels challenging.

Brief Bio

Donna Wills is a registered veterinary nurse with over two decades of experience in various veterinary roles. She is passionate about rehabilitation and physiotherapy, running her own physiotherapy clinics across multiple practices. Donna is also known for her work in emergency and critical care, as well as her commitment to empowering other veterinary professionals to explore diverse career paths within the field.

Key Takeaways

1. Vet nursing offers incredible flexibility and growth – Donna’s career journey shows how diverse and adaptable a career in veterinary nursing can be, with opportunities ranging from clinic work to rehabilitation.
2. Passion drives long-term fulfillment – Donna’s love for animals and rehabilitation has kept her motivated and happy in her career for over 20 years.
3. Never underestimate the power of saying yes – Taking chances, even when they’re intimidating, can lead to unexpected growth and new career paths.
4. Vet nurses have the power to create change – Donna emphasizes that even in corporate structures, vet nurses can mold their roles to better suit their passions and improve patient care.
5. Vet Nurse Awareness Month is a time to celebrate and empower – Donna’s story exemplifies how vet nurses are not only caregivers but innovators in the field.

Relevant Links

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Learn more about CAM:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CAMarthritis
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/canine_arthritis
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/CanineArthritisManagement
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/canine-arthritis-management-ltd

Have questions send them to: info@caninearthritis.co.uk

Stay tuned to learn how early detection can make a significant difference in managing OA in younger dogs.