The Murray State College Veterinary Technology Program supports the National Veterinary Nurse Initiative (VNI) and the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA), as they pursue a national credential change to Registered Veterinary Nurse (RVN). The program fully endorses the position of both NAVTA and Oklahoma Veterinary Technician Association (OVTA).
Murray State College graduated their first class in 1980, and has worked diligently for the past 39 years to elevate the veterinary technician profession by demonstrating the importance of veterinary technicians in the veterinary health care team. The positive impact credentialed technicians have on veterinary practices has been proven, however, the lack of standardization from state to state causes confusion for the public and makes it difficult for graduates to transfer to other states for employment.
We respect the human nursing profession and fully recognize how hard they have worked to advance their profession just as we hope they respect our commitment to advance ours. The role of the veterinary technician has evolved over the years they now serve a vital role on the veterinary healthcare team providing high quality nursing care, client education and a commitment to lifelong learning to better serve their patients and profession. It is imperative that the profession create a unified public image.
We strongly support the title change to Registered Veterinary Nurse as it better represents the role within the veterinary team, and highlights the high level of care RVN’s provide. We look forward to supporting OVTA and NAVTA with its legislative efforts.