The University Centre Reaseheath, based in the UK, has forged a new path in veterinary training by becoming the first educational institution to develop a new exam on the use of the v-gel®
The Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) is a standardised assessment tool used in various healthcare professions in the UK, including veterinary medicine. OSCE exams evaluate a student’s ability to apply their knowledge and skills in simulated clinical scenarios. This approach ensures graduates are not only theoretically competent but also possess the practical skills necessary to excel in the workplace.
This pioneering initiative is a collaborative effort between University Centre Reaseheath and Docsinnovent Ltd and we are delighted to support them in its new approach to veterinary nurse education. By being the first institution to implement a v-gel® OSCE, Reaseheath sets a remarkable standard for the entire veterinary profession.
The OSCE, is a critical step for aspiring vet nurses. By developing the first-ever v-gel® OSCE, University Centre Reaseheath ensures its graduates are not only theoretically knowledgeable but also possess the hands-on skills to confidently use this leading-edge equipment in real-world scenarios.
“v-gel® represent a major advancement in animal anaesthesia, and we believe it’s crucial for our students to be proficient in this innovative technique,” says Rosie Barrow, Veterinary Lecturer at University Centre Reaseheath.
v-gel® is a new generation of airway management devices designed to offer several advantages over traditional methods like facemasks and endotracheal tubes. Available for cats, dogs, and rabbits, v-gel® is less invasive to insert and provide a gentler alternative to traditional anaesthesia methods. Unlike traditional methods, they eliminate post-procedure pain, coughing, and sore throats, allowing the patient to resume eating more quickly, which is vital for species such as rabbits which need to eat constantly to keep their digestive system working, providing a more comfortable experience for patients. They also offer improved safety features, such as a wider airway and reduced risk of aspiration, additionally, their quicker placement proves advantageous in emergencies.
Beyond patient benefits, v-gel® offers improved safety for veterinary professionals. Compared to facemasks or uncuffed endotracheal tubes, they significantly reduce exposure to harmful pollutants, fostering a healthier work environment.
“We’re thrilled to be at the forefront of veterinary nurse training by them into our curriculum. We prioritise preparing industry-focused, career-ready veterinary technicians and we achieve this by ensuring our students are not only taught the latest theoretical knowledge in airway management, but also gain practical experience with a wide variety of equipment. This allows them to graduate feeling comfortable and confident using these methods in various clinical settings. Our students are gaining invaluable experience with the latest advancements in airway management, which equips them with the skills to excel in their future careers and provide exceptional patient care.”
Picture: Rosie Barrow shows Student Veterinary Nurse, Kia Booty, how to place a dog v-gel®