The Ryan Veterinary Hospital of The University of Pennsylvania (Penn Vet) supports the establishment of the national credential of Registered Veterinary Nurse by the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA).
As a leader in veterinary education, Penn Vet has long recognized the integral role of the certified veterinary technician in the delivery of quality veterinary care. We have partnered with Harcum College to educate and train future generations of veterinary technicians. We empower our CVT’s to think critically and to be strong patient advocates. Unfortunately, the public does not fully understand the vital role that veterinary technicians play in the
care of their pets.
There is so much confusion centered on the inconsistent titles used throughout the veterinary profession; titles that include registered veterinary technician (RVT), licensed veterinary technician (LVT), and certified veterinary technician (CVT). Creating one single designation of “registered veterinary nurse (RVN)” across all 50 states will immediately advance the public understanding of the vital role played by these veterinary professionals.
Creating one consistent title will also allow there to be standardization of the job responsibilities as well as the education required to perform those responsibilities. There have been so many advances made in veterinary medicine, yet many states still allow non credentialed workers to deliver patient care that should only be performed by highly educated, licensed , specialty trained veterinary technicians. The Veterinary Nurse Initiative (VNI) is the first step in creating a national standard that will promote education and provide the much-deserved recognition these veterinary professionals deserve.
Penn Vet strongly supports the Veterinary Nurse Initiative in changing the professional title in PA from Certified Veterinary Technician (CVT) to Registered Veterinary Nurse (RVN).