Pre-registration Candidate Objective Structured

Clinical Examination (OSCE) Guide

Updated December 2023

Contents
Introduction .........................................................................................................................................1
Entry requirements – Educated outside the UK ...................................................................................1

Entry requirements – UK students .......................................................................................................2

Entering the examination .....................................................................................................................2
Maximum candidate numbers .............................................................................................................2

The examination day ...........................................................................................................................3

Video recording ...................................................................................................................................6
Disposing of waste ..............................................................................................................................7

Equipment ..........................................................................................................................................7
Calculations ........................................................................................................................................7
Passing criteria ................................................................................................................................. 10
Feedback .......................................................................................................................................... 10
Example of an OSCE summary report ............................................................................................... 11
Examiners......................................................................................................................................... 12

Dress code for the examination ......................................................................................................... 12

How to prepare for the OSCE ............................................................................................................ 12
Resource list ..................................................................................................................................... 13

Common mistakes in the examination ............................................................................................... 14

Reasonable adjustment ..................................................................................................................... 14
Mitigating circumstances ................................................................................................................... 14
Examination results enquiry and appeals ........................................................................................... 15
Re-sitting the examination ................................................................................................................. 15
Refreshments ................................................................................................................................... 15
Important dates for 2024 ................................................................................................................... 16
Fees for 2024.................................................................................................................................... 16
Payment, withdrawal and refunds ...................................................................................................... 17
Location of the Examination (2024) ................................................................................................... 18
Contacting the RCVS ........................................................................................................................ 20
OSCE stations scenarios and mark schemes .................................................................................... 21
Introduction
This handbook provides information to individuals who are required to pass the RCVS Pre-registration
Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE). This includes;

• Student Veterinary Nurses enrolled with the RCVS completing a qualification which holds
RCVS provisional accreditation.
• Holders of veterinary nursing qualifications issued outside the UK who have had their
qualification and experience assessed as suitable for entering the Pre-registration examination.

This guidance provides details about entering the examination, the examination day, and the results
process.

An OSCE is a multi-station practical examination where students have a fixed period of time to
complete a series of complex and non-complex practical tasks. The examination covers the following
topics:

• Assessment and Nursing Care

• Communication
• Dressings and Bandages
• Supporting Veterinary Anaesthesia
• Veterinary Diagnostic Imaging
• Veterinary Laboratory Techniques
• Veterinary Theatre Practice

The examination is designed to assess your skills, competences and practical application of clinical
situations detailed in the RCVS Day One Skills for Veterinary Nurses. The examination is held up to
three times a year. The examination dates and submission dates are detailed on the application form
available from the Veterinary Nursing Department.

The content of the examination reflects current clinical procedures undertaken in the UK. These may
differ from other countries and therefore you should ensure that you are familiar with the methodology
you are required to follow.

The examination consists of ten OSCE stations. You have a maximum of ten minutes to complete each
station. The scenario and a marking scheme are made available to you beforehand. It is strongly
advised that you spend time in a UK veterinary practice going through these tasks and ask veterinary
nurses to observe you. You will almost certainly be familiar with most of the techniques but the
equipment available in the UK may differ.

Entry requirements – Educated outside the UK

To be eligible to enter the Pre-registration OSCE you must first have achieved a qualification, which has
been accepted by the RCVS, and been informed that you need to pass the examination.

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Entry requirements – UK students
UK Students studying on a course with provisional accreditation may enter the examination prior to
completion of their qualification, but only once they have passed all modules referenced to the RCVS
Day One Skills and RCVS Day One Competences, including the completion of 1,800 hours of clinical
experience. If you have not completed the required hours, contact us to discuss the possibility of being
permitted to enter the examination.

It should be noted that once you achieve your qualification your student status will end. You may
continue to work in veterinary practice for the purposes of preparing for the examination but must enroll
for a Period of Supervised Adaptation (PSA) if your role requires you to deliver nursing care or
undertake surgical procedures. Individuals registered for the PSA must be supervised in the same way
that they would have been when they were enrolled as student veterinary nurses.
For further information email [email protected]

Entering the examination

To enter the examination please visit the RCVS ‘My Account’ area at www.rcvs.org.uk/login and log in
using your username and password. Select the option ‘Apply Pre registration exams’. Complete the
form and make the payment.

Please note that your entry will not be accepted until the payment is received. If your payment is late,
then you may not be able to enter the examination.

We will email you to confirm your application has been received. Once all applications have been
received, we will confirm the date and time of your appointment along with the password you will need
to open your examination results.

If your examination fee is being paid by your college, we will be able to send an invoice on receipt of a
written request to do so. The request must contain the names and RCVS number of each applicant.

Please note the focus of the examination is normally small companion animals kept as pets in
the UK. If you have a specific equine qualification, please discuss with us at least 4 months
before the examination. You will be provided with a handbook containing the possible Equine
OSCE stations

Maximum candidate numbers

Our examination centre is always booked for two days, this allows us to examine a maximum of 40
candidates. If we exceed this number, we will try to accommodate everyone by arranging further
examination sessions, but this is not always possible. Priority is given to those who enter the
examination first. You are therefore advised to enter the examination as soon as possible.

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The examination day
You must attend the examination at your allotted time. You will be given a briefing before the exam. It is
important to arrive at least thirty minutes before your start time. The Examination will last for 2.5 - 3
hours.

You are required to bring 3 pairs of surgical gloves in your size. This is to ensure that you have
correctly fitting gloves of a familiar type should any of the tasks require them.

You must bring your passport or driving licence as identification (national ID card for EU citizens also
accepted). This must be an up-to-date, valid document. If you arrive without the correct
identification, you will be turned away from the examination (if in doubt about the admissibility of
your photo identification please contact the RCVS).

If you hold a qualification issued outside the UK you must bring your original qualification
certificate(s) and Passport to the examination to be checked. If you do not bring your
certificate(s) then you will be able to sit the examination but will not be able to enter the
Register until these have been seen. This may mean that you will be required to bring them to
the RCVS offices in London.

Normally a maximum of ten candidates will sit the exam at the same time. There may be several
groups. Where applicants attend the same college, we will try and place them in the same group so
that they can travel to the examination together.

When you enter the examination room you will see 10 screened booths. You will be assigned the first
task. The task scenario will be placed on the chair outside.

An electronic timing system will be used. You will hear an announcement instructing you to read the
scenario. You will be given approximately two minutes to do this. You will then be instructed to enter the
booth. The examiner may provide you with additional instructions and the announcer will tell you to start
the task.

After eight minutes you will be told that you have two minutes remaining. After 10 minutes you will be
told to stop what you are doing and leave the station. Once all candidates have left the stations you will
be moved to the next station. There will be a pause between stations to allow the examiners to
complete their marking and reset the station. You will be told when to read the next scenario. This will
continue until all the tasks have been completed.

Short comfort breaks may be requested, but we ask that you keep these to a minimum because the
entire examination circuit will be paused until you return to the room.

You are required to carry out the patient care in the way you will when you are a Registered Veterinary
Nurse (RVN). We do not use live patients; instead, we use veterinary models, which have been adapted
for the purpose of the examination. You are expected to provide the treatment as if the patient is a real
animal.

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You will be told if the patient is conscious or not.

At each OSCE station there will be one or more skills to complete. Inside each station you will find a
copy of the scenario and all the necessary equipment required to complete the skill. This may include a
model patient and hospital record. Infection control equipment (hand gel, aprons, and gloves) will be
available if you are expected to use them.

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 Station 0
Communication
Station 10 reading station
Veterinary Station 1
Laboratory Communication
Techniques

Station 2
Station 9
Veterinary
Veterinary Theatre
Laboratory
Practice
Techniques

Example of RCVS Pre-registration

examination circuit
Station 8 Station 3
Assessment and Assessment and
Nursing care Nursing Care

Station 7 Station 4
Assessment and Veterinary
Nursing Care Diagnostic imaging

Station 6 Station 5
Dressing and Supporting
Banadge Veterinary
Application Anaesthesia

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The examiner will assess you against the published marking criteria. You are being assessed on your
practical skills. Some candidates find it useful to talk while completing the task, but unless specifically
requested in the scenario you will not be marked on your verbal explanation. You must not talk to the
other candidates while in the examination room.

You may leave the booth when you have completed everything you need to do. Do not worry if you
complete the task early. Finishing early does not necessarily indicate that you have done something
wrong; however, you should check that you have not forgotten to do something before leaving the
station.

Once you have completed all the stations you will be allowed to leave the test centre. Your results will
be sent to you by email within 4 weeks of the examination. We normally provide you with 24 hours
notice that results are being published.

OSCE stations are revised from time to time. No changes will be made in the four weeks prior to the
examination. The date of the last update is detailed on each OSCE station.

Video recording
During the exam, RCVS may take a video and audio recording of candidates within an OSCE station
which will then be assessed at a later date or used for quality assurance processes.

This Data will be processed in compliance with the General Data Protection Regulations and Data
Protection Act 2018.

We will be processing this data on a public task basis to carry out our functions in the public interest i.e.
in order to administer the Pre-registration examination and ensure its integrity.

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The data will be stored for no longer than is necessary and technical and security measures are in
place to ensure the data remains strictly confidential. Videos will normally be deleted after any
examination appeals have been concluded.

For further information on how RCVS processes data and if you have any questions then please see
our online privacy policy https://www.rcvs.org.uk/privacypolicy/

Disposing of waste
It is your responsibility to familiarise yourself with UK veterinary waste requirements. Helpful
information is available on our website https://www.rcvs.org.uk/news-and-views/news/hazardous-waste-
responsibilities/

Equipment
All equipment required to complete the examination will be provided with the exception of surgical
gloves. You may bring pens, scissors and calculators if you wish, but these will be provided where
required.

Calculations
Many of the OSCE stations require you to complete a calculation. These often relate to drug dosages.
The way the dose rate is presented is taken from the manufacturers data sheets. You are not required
to remember dose rates. These will be provided. You will either be provided with scales to weigh the
patient, or the weight will be contained on the patient record. You will also be provided with the
concentration of the drug i.e. 10mg/ml.

If you are unfamiliar with the way that manufacturers dose rates are written then is it advisable to view
examples published in the Noah datasheet compendium, BSAVA formulary or online. We have also
provided some examples below.

The use of calculators in the practical examination is permitted. These will be provided where required.

Examples of information you could be provided to calculate a dose of medication / drug to

administer to a patient.

• 5 mg/kg bodyweight, corresponding to 1 ml/5 kg bodyweight, daily by subcutaneous injection

for 5 days.

• 10 mg/kg bodyweight, corresponding to 2 ml/5 kg bodyweight, once daily by intramuscular

injection for 10 consecutive days.

• 2.5 mg/10 kg bodyweight (equivalent to 0.5 ml/10 kg), twice daily for 10 days to be given orally
in tablet or capsule.

• 1.7 mg/10 kg bodyweight (equivalent to 0.34 ml/10 kg), three times daily via intravenous
injection.

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 • 50 mg/kg bodyweight per day (i.e. 0.4 ml/kg bodyweight), preferably given in two equally
divided doses (i.e. 25 mg equivalent to 0.2 ml/kg bodyweight twice daily) for 5-7 days.

• mg/kg/day split into two equal doses to be administered subcutaneously.

• mg/kg body weight (i.e. 0.4 ml/10 kg bodyweight) given in one dose orally (liquid)

• 5 mg/kg body weight (0.2 ml/kg bodyweight) orally diluted in water, twice daily for 7 days.

• 40 mg/kg bodyweight daily by subcutaneous injection for 5 days.

• 0.10 ml/kg bodyweight twice daily for 10 days to be given orally as tablet or capsule.

Examples of information you could be provided with to calculate Intravenous fluid therapy rates
You will be provided with the following information.

Maintenance rate calculations X mls/kg/day

Drip factor X drops/ml

Other information Administer the fluid over a period of X hours

Example of information you could be provided with to calculate a fresh gas flow for Anaesthesia
You will be provided with the
• Weight of the patient
• Tidal Volume
• Respiration rate

You will not be provided with the system factor

You must show your workings on the sheet provided and remember to include the units. An example of
the calculations sheet is included on the next page.

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OSCE Exam Calculation Sheet (Example)

TASK: ANC 01

If more space is required, please continue overleaf.

Final Answer including correct unit of measurement:

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Passing criteria
In order to pass the examination, you need to achieve and pass a minimum of 7 stations and achieve a
minimum total score. Each of the steps within the OSCE is weighted. This means that some steps
attribute one mark towards your final score while others contribute up to ten marks. The more important
the step, the higher the mark. Steps where patient safety is paramount will be worth more marks. Due
to the different complexity in each OSCE station the pass marks differ. RCVS use the Angoff method to
set the pass mark. Pass marks are not published ahead of the examination, but you will be provided
this information with your results.

Feedback
You will receive a summary report and copies of each of your mark sheets as completed by the
examiner. This will detail the score you achieved in each OSCE station and your total score. The
passing score for each station will also be provided. An example of a score report is provided on the
next page.

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Example of an OSCE summary report

RCVS Pre-Registration Veterinary Nursing Examinations (OSCE) April 2023

Results Summary for Katie Francis Crafter

To pass the RCVS Pre-Registration Objective Structured Practical Examination (OSCE) you need to
achieve:
• A pass in a minimum of 7 stations
and
• A combined score for all questions (OSCE stations) equal to or higher than the total pass
mark of all the questions used on the day of the examination. For April 2023, the minimum
score is 795.
Please note each step on the mark sheet has a different number of marks assigned to it.

OSCE Station Your Score (%) Minimum Acceptable Achieved

Score (%)

CNA 06 92 80 Yes

CNA 09 81 79 Yes

MTS 07 100 80 Yes

PBT 02 80 79 Yes

PBT 05 80 76 Yes

PCT 01 93 85 Yes

RET 09 90 76 Yes

TYP 01 79 80 No

TYP 07 49 82 No

VPA 01 78 78 Yes

You achieved 8 OSCE stations and a total score of 822

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Examiners
Examiners are Registered Veterinary Nurses (RVNs) or veterinary surgeons. All examiners receive
training and attend standardisation sessions. The role of the examiner is to assess candidates carrying
out the task. The examiner will observe you and complete the mark sheet as you progress through the
task.

Dress code for the examination

You should wear the uniform you wear at work. It does not need to be a particular style or colour. Your
shoes should enclose the whole foot. Open toe shoes or sandals are not permitted. The uniform and
shoes should be clean and free from obvious dirt and stains. Hair should be clean and tidy. Long hair
should be secured off the face. Nails should be clean and well-manicured (short), false nails and
varnish should be removed. It is advisable to remove all jewellery. This is because a number of
stations have marks attributed to this. If you are unable to remove your jewellery, then you will not
achieve the marks.

How to prepare for the OSCE

The RCVS publishes the OSCE station scenarios and marking criteria. You can find a copy at the end
of this document. Examiners accept that there may be several ways to complete each skill. You should
refer to textbooks to confirm the methodology used in the UK. There are no specific books based on the
OSCE examination for veterinary nurses. Many of the veterinary nursing textbooks and journals contain
acceptable methods for carrying out each practical skill.

If you are a Student Veterinary Nurse or registered for the Period of Supervised Adaptation (PSA),
you are likely to be working alongside Registered Veterinary Nurses (RVNs). These nurses will have
taken OSCE examinations. Talk to them about their experiences.

Use the checklists provided to practice the OSCE stations and become familiar with the marking
criteria. When you are ready, ask others to observe you and provide you with feedback on your
performance.

Colleges offering veterinary nurse training in the UK often run revision courses. A list of colleges can be
found on the RCVS website. You are advised to attend at least one revision course before entering the
examination. You should inform the college that you are entering the RCVS Pre-registration
examination and ensure that they will be able to cover the skills required during the revision session.

The RCVS has developed some support material which is available via the RCVS Academy
https://academy.rcvs.org.uk/. To access please use your RCVS login and password which was
provided to you during your enrolment/application process. If you qualified outside the UK select the
Career Development tab and working in the UK for veterinary nurses. The OSCE support material
is located in part 2 of the veterinary nurse course. If you studied in the UK then select the tab for
Students & Newly Qualified and VN pre-registration examination support. The courses are the
same, but they contain different information about entering the examination.

If you complete the course and wish to join the online group meeting to discuss the OSCE stations
shown in the activity, then please complete the form in the Academy.

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The sessions will be held between 10:00 – 12:00 on the following dates:

• Tuesday 2 January 2024

• Tuesday 21 May 2024
• Tuesday 1 October 2024

The RCVS does not predetermine the pass rate and it is possible for all candidates to pass. Most
candidates are successful the first time, but the examination is challenging and therefore you should
ensure that you are fully prepared before you enter the examination.

The facilities at MYF Training are leased to the RCVS. Their staff are not involved in the development
of the examinations and cannot provide tours of the facilities beforehand. Please direct all questions to
the RCVS examinations team.

Resource list
We are not able to recommend textbooks, but you might find the information in these resources helpful
to prepare you for working in a UK practice.

• Anaesthesia for Veterinary Nurses (L Walsh)

• BSAVA Textbook of Veterinary Nursing
• Clinical Procedures in Veterinary Nursing (V Aspinall)
• Handbook of Veterinary Communication Skills (C Gray and J Moffett)
• Practical Radiography for Veterinary Nurses (S Easton)
• RCVS Code of Professional Conduct supporting Guidance https://www.rcvs.org.uk/setting-
standards/advice-and-guidance/code-of-professional-conduct-for-veterinary-
surgeons/supporting-guidance/
• RCVS Day One Skills for Veterinary Nurses https://www.rcvs.org.uk/document-library/rcvs-day-
one-skills-for-veterinary-nurses/
• The Complete Textbook of Veterinary Nursing, Victoria Aspinall
• The Millpledge Bandage book (Millpledge) https://millpledge.com/content-page/millpledge-
bandage-book
• University of Bristol Clinical Skills Booklets https://www.bristol.ac.uk/vet-
school/research/comparative-clinical/veterinary-education/clinical-skills-booklets/
• Veterinary Clinical Skills Manual (N Coombes and A Silva Fletcher)

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Common mistakes in the examination
The OSCE stations cover common and important skills that veterinary nurses encounter in the UK. The
methodology may differ from what you are used to in the country you trained in. Common mistakes
include:
• Not preparing for the examination before hand
• Being unfamiliar with the marking criteria for the OSCE stations
• Not reading the instructions carefully
• Misinterpreting the instructions
• Incorrectly calculating dose rates for medications
• Not including the correct units in calculations
• Not using an aseptic technique
• Wearing jewellery
• Taking more than 10 minutes to complete the task

Reasonable adjustment
If you have any special educational or other needs/disability, which may require special provision to be
made in the examinations you can apply for adjustments to be made in your examination.

Applications must be received at least two months before your examination. You will receive a letter
confirming the adjustments we will make. If you have been permitted to have adjustments made, then
you should indicate this on the examination entry form. Assessments for special educational needs
made before you were sixteen must have been made within two years of the application for entry to the
examinations or an updated report will be required. If the report was made after your sixteenth birthday,
then no updated report will be necessary, even if it is more than two years old.

If you believe that you will have difficulty completing any of the OSCE stations due to an issue with the
equipment provided, for example an allergy or other unavoidable challenge, you should notify the RCVS
before the examination entry closing date.

A current medical letter must accompany applications made for medical reasons.

Mitigating circumstances
If you wish to notify the RCVS of circumstances, which may have unduly affected your examination
performance, you must do so within 5 days of sitting the examination. You must use the appropriate
form, which can be obtained on request from the RCVS or at the examination centre.

The RCVS will give consideration to personal circumstances (such as illness or serious personal
problems) which occurred unexpectedly and immediately prior to, or during, the examination. We will
also take into consideration events occurring during the examination itself (such as undue disturbance).
If we consider that such circumstances have unduly affected your performance, your mark may be
adjusted, or the examination attempt may be nullified. You should note that adjustment of marks applies
only in the case of borderline failure.

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Illness cannot be used as a reason for special consideration – if you are unwell, you should
withdraw from the examination and re-apply when you are fit to sit.

Examination results enquiry and appeals

If you have an enquiry concerning the accuracy of your examination results you must submit the
Examination Enquiry form within 14 days of the results being published. The form can be obtained from
the RCVS. There is a fee for the enquiry, which will be refunded if the investigation identifies an
irregularity in your examination.

If you are not satisfied with the result of the enquiry or you feel that an enquiry is not necessary, you
may submit an examination appeal. Examination appeals may be made only against the conduct and
conditions of the examination and not against the marks awarded. An appeal must be made, in
writing and using the RCVS Appeal Form available from the RCVS, within 28 days of the date of the
letter advising of your examination result or 14 days after the letter informing you of the result of your
enquiry.

Candidates awaiting the outcome of an appeal or investigation are advised to enter future
examinations. If the appeal is successful, the RCVS will refund examination fees and all out of pocket
expenses.

Re-sitting the examination

You are permitted to re-sit the examination as often as you like. You will be required to pay the full fee
for each examination attempt. You will, however, be required to provide evidence that you are taking
remedial action before entering your fourth and subsequent examinations.

Refreshments
MYF Training is situated in the town of Aldershot. You can purchase refreshments locally. You are
permitted to bring water into the examination. The RCVS are reducing the use of single use plastics.
We therefore request that those attending the examination bring their own refillable water bottle.
Drinking water will be provided to enable these to be topped up.

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Important dates for 2024

Examination Date Closing Date

2-4 February 2024 Friday 29 December 2023

21-23 June 2024 Friday 17 May 2024
9-10 November 2024 Friday 4 October 2024

Fees for 2024

The entry fee for the 2024 practical examinations is £460 for each attempt. This fee reflects the true
cost of delivering the examination. The RCVS does not seek to make a profit, but to cover the costs
incurred in delivering the examination. Examination fees for 2025 will be provided in December 2024.

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Payment, withdrawal and refunds
Receipt of your payment does not indicate your entry has been accepted. In some instances, there
may be follow-up action required:

a) If notice of withdrawal is received in writing at the RCVS on or before the closing date for the
receipt of entries, a full refund of the fee, subject to a deduction of 10% for administrative costs,
will be made.
b) If notice of withdrawal is received in writing at the RCVS after the closing date for entries but
no less than 10 working days before the date on which your practical examination is due to
be held, a 50% refund will be made.
c) If you withdraw less than ten days before the examination or fail to appear at the
examination, you will not be entitled to a refund of any portion of the fee paid (except as
provided below).

In special circumstances, consideration will be given to a full refund if there are medical or
compassionate reasons for withdrawal or failure to appear for the examination. Any such refunds will
be subject to a deduction of 10% for administrative costs.

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Location of the Examination (2024)
The examination will be held in the Veterinary Nursing Clinical Skills suite at the following address:
MYF Training
Tutor House
78-82 Victoria Road
Aldershot
Hampshire
GU11 1SS

MYF Training is located in Aldershot, Hampshire

By Car
From the M3 Southbound
At junction 4 take the A331 exit to Guildford/Farnham/Farnborough
At the roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto the A331
Take the A23 exit toward Aldershot/Woking/A324
At the roundabout, take the 4th exit onto Ash Road/A323
Turn Left toward Windsor Way/B3008
Slight left onto Windsor Way/B3008
Turn right onto Arthur St
Turn right onto Victoria Road/B3008
The car park is situated at the rear of the building. Take the next left and left again. The entrance to
the car park is on the left

From the M3 Northbound

At junction 5, take the B3349/A287 exit to Hook
At the roundabout take the 4th exit onto the A287
At the roundabout, take the 2nd exit and stay on A287
At the roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto Farnham Road/A287
Continue onto Upper Hale Road/A3016
Turn left onto Alma Lane/B3305
At the roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto Cranmore Lane/B3008
Turn right onto Ayling Hill
Continue onto Church Lane
Turn Left to stay on Church Lane
Turn left onto Grovenor Riad/B3007
Turn right onto Halimote Road
Halimote Road turns left and becomes The Grove
Continue onto Station Road
Turn right onto Victoria Road/B3008
The car park is situated at the rear of building. Take the next left and left again the entrance to the car
park is on the left.

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MYF Training is also easily accessible via the M4 and A3

Parking
Please park in the main car park to the rear of the building.

By Train
The nearest train station is Aldershot - Trains run regularly from London Waterloo Train Station please
visit www.nationalrail.co.uk for train tickets and times. MYF Training is about a five-minute walk from
the station.

Accommodation
There are a number of hotels in Aldershot details can be found using accommodation search
mechanisms online.

MYF Training

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 MYF Training

Contacting the RCVS

Please contact the RCVS Veterinary nursing Examination team on 020 7202 0788 or
[email protected].

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OSCE stations scenarios and mark schemes
The pre-registration practical examination comprises a series of Objectively Structured Clinical
Examinations (OSCE). Each OSCE station is designed to test the practical skills contained within the
RCVS Day-One Skills for veterinary nurses.

The OSCE stations are published to allow candidates to prepare for the exam. Please note changes
may be made up to 4 weeks prior to the examination. You will be sent the handbook after every
update.

The scenarios and marking schemes are the intellectual property of the RCVS and must not be copied
and used by other organisations without prior written consent.

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Assessment and Nursing Care

The following OSCE stations could be used in your examination

ANC 01 Intravenous fluid preparation and administration of medication

ANC 02 Intravenous fluid preparation

ANC 03 Accommodation cleaning

ANC 04 Assisted feeding

ANC 05 Administer medication

ANC 06 Dispensing medication

ANC 07 IV Catheter placement

ANC 08 Administer oral medication

ANC 09 Administer IV medication

ANC 10 Administer IV Controlled Drug

Feedback from the examiners

Intravenous fluid therapy

Candidates are reminded to check the fluid bag provided is appropriate for use and explain the
checks that they are making.

Examiners also remind candidates to select and prepare all the equipment required for the placement
of the IV catheter. It should be possible to place the catheter without further preparation of the
equipment.

Patient restraint

Unless the candidate has reason to believe that the patient’s temperament is good, they should
always ask the patient to be restrained. They should show the examiner how they would like the
patient to be restrained.

Accommodation cleaning

Candidates need to remember that there are seven sides of a kennel. Candidates often omit to clean
one of the sides, the roof or both sides of the door.

Many candidates are not familiar with the correct method to use a ratio when diluting disinfectant.
The ratio will be provided to candidates, but they need to decide how much water and disinfectant
need to be used.

22
Injection technique

When administering medication via a subcutaneous route candidates omit to massage the injection
site to disperse the medication. Candidates also fail to use an aseptic technique when drawing up the
calculated volume of medication.

Calculation of medication

Candidates sometimes calculate the correct daily dose of medication but then fail to consider the
number of times the medication is to be administered in the day. Scenarios may request the daily
dose is given in one or more equally divided doses. Giving the entire daily dose at the same time
may lead to overdose and will affect the marks awarded.

Selection and preparation of all necessary equipment

When selecting equipment candidates often fail to prepare it fully or check that items are in full
working order.

Assisted feeding

Candidates often fail to safely check the position and patency of the feeding tube.

Administration of a controlled drug

Candidates are provided with the hub amount or amount wasted but they sometimes do not consider
this information when completing the controlled drug register. Examples of controlled drug registers
used in the UK and other resources can be found online https://www.gov.uk/guidance/controlled-
drugs-veterinary-medicines

https://www.rcvs.org.uk/setting-standards/advice-and-guidance/code-of-professional-conduct-for-
veterinary-surgeons/supporting-guidance/veterinary-medicines/

https://www.rcvs.org.uk/news-and-views/features/a-reminder-from-the-rcvs-and-vmd-of-the-
requirements-for/

https://www.bsavalibrary.com/docserver/fulltext/10.22233/9781905319862/BSAVA_Medicine_Guide_
2_9781905319862.4.10-
17.pdf?expires=1659532363&id=id&accname=guest&checksum=6F38598A0DA3FA53A9BACCA36C
41A054

Completing patient hospital records

Candidates often provide incomplete information on the patient record. There are clear prompts
about what information needs to be provided in each of the sections of the record.

23
RCVS Pre-Registration OSCE

OSCE Code ANC 01

You are required to administer fluid therapy and intravenous (IV) medication
to a patient. The patient has an intravenous catheter and T-connector, which
was placed 2 hours ago.

The veterinary surgeon requests that you;

a. Calculate the quantity of medication to be given.

b. Prepare and administer the medication via the IV catheter. The examiner
will check the syringe prior to you administering the medication.

c. Administer the fluid at the rate provided on the patient hospital record.

d. Record the administration of the medication on the patient hospital record

provided.

Additional notes

An intravenous catheter with T-connector has already been placed. You are
not required to change the patient’s IV catheter or bandage.

The fluid and administration set have already been prepared and are hanging
on the drip stand ready for use.

Assume the patient is being restrained.

Assume that your hands have been cleaned prior to starting the procedure.

Updated December 2023

Intellectual property rights of this OSCE checklist belong to RCVS. Please do not use without permission

24
This OSCE station assesses the following RCVS Day One Skills for Veterinary Nurses

Section 1 - Legislation Affecting Practice

1.1 Comply with Health and Safety requirements and local risk factors.

1.2 Follow Standard Operating Procedures and manufacturer guidelines when using equipment and
materials.

Section 4 – Nursing Care

4.10 Administer medicines prescribed by the veterinary surgeon in accordance with instructions from the
manufacturer to include intravenous administration of medicines.
4.12 Provide fluid therapy to in-patients to include manage intravenous catheters.

Section 7 - Dispensing

7.1 Ensure safe handling and management of pharmaceuticals in accordance with legislation and
manufacturer guidelines to include handle medicines in line with legislative guidelines and SPC
requirements.

7.2 Interpret prescriptions and prepare medicines for dispensing to include calculate drug dosages and
confirm with an appropriately qualified member of the veterinary team.

7.3 Maintain appropriate records to include hospital charts.

Section 8 – Infection Control

8.3 Dispose of hazardous and non-hazardous waste safely and correctly according to current legislation to
include dispose of non-hazardous waste and medications.

8.4 Ensure appropriate hygiene skills are followed before and after handling animals and equipment, to
include use and dispose of PPE.

25
 ANC01 - Intravenous fluid preparation and administration of Achieved Not
achieved
medication
1. Correctly calculated the dose of medication to be administered to the
patient.

2. Units included in final answer.

3. Correct medication selected, expiry date and date of first opening

checked.

4. Correct needle and syringe selected and correctly assembled using an

aseptic technique.

5. Aseptic technique used to draw up the correct volume of medication.

6. Personal protective equipment worn to prevent contamination of nurse and

patient.

7. IV catheter checked to ensure patency.

8. Medication administered intravenously using an aseptic technique.

9. Medication flushed through the catheter.

10. Administration of medication recorded fully on patient hospital record.

11. Needle(s) not resheathed at any time or resheathed safely.

12. Waste material disposed of into appropriate waste receptacle.

13. Using an aseptic technique administered fluid at the administration fluid

rate detailed on the patient record.

26
RCVS Pre-Registration OSCE

OSCE Code ANC 02

You are required to prepare and set up the equipment to treat a patient
requiring fluid replacement therapy.

You are required to;

a. Select and prepare the equipment for infusion of intravenous (IV) fluid.
Leave this ready for use. Explain to the examiner the checks you are
making.

b. Select and prepare the equipment required for the placement of an

intravenous (IV) cannula. Explain to the examiner the checks you are
making.

c. Calculate;

I. The total daily maintenance requirement.

II. mls per hour.

III. The fluid administration rate (drops per second or frequency of

drops).

Additional Information

Assume that your hands have been cleaned prior to starting the procedure.

Show all workings including units. It is acceptable to round your final answer
up or down to the nearest whole number.

Updated April 2022

Intellectual property rights of this OSCE checklist belong to RCVS. Please do not use without permission.

27
 This OSCE station assesses the following RCVS Day One Skills for Veterinary Nurses

Section 1 - Legislation Affecting Practice

1.1 Comply with Health and Safety requirements and local risk factors.

1.2 Follow Standard Operating Procedures and manufacturer guidelines when using equipment and
materials.

Section 4 – Nursing Care

4.12 Provide fluid therapy to in-patients, to include:

Select appropriate fluids according to veterinary surgeon instructions.
Select and prepare administration equipment.
Place intravenous catheters into appropriate veins.
Manage intravenous catheters.
Calculate amount and rate of fluid to administer.
Report any concerns to an appropriate member of the team.
Observe and monitor patients receiving fluid therapy.

Section 8 – Infection Control

8.3 Dispose of hazardous and non-hazardous waste safely and correctly according to current legislation to
include dispose of hazardous and non-hazardous waste.

8.4 Ensure appropriate hygiene skills are followed before and after handling animals and equipment, to
include use and dispose of PPE.

28
 ANC 02 - Intravenous fluid preparation Achieved Not
achieved

1. Intravenous fluid checked and prepared.

2. Fluid administration set checked, and fluid set up using an aseptic

technique.
3. No significant air bubbles left within the drip line.

4. All necessary equipment selected and prepared for the placement of the
IV cannula.

5. Selected and prepared a T-connector and left ready for use.

6. Correctly calculated fluid administration rate.

7. Units included in final answer.

8. Administration set left hanging over the drip stand or secured safely
without breaking asepsis.

9. Waste material disposed of into appropriate waste receptacle.

29
RCVS Pre-Registration OSCE

OSCE Code ANC 03

During recovery from routine surgery, a patient has soiled its hospital
accommodation.

You are required to;

a. Clean the accommodation.

b. Record your observations on the hospital record.

Additional notes

Your patient has already been removed from the kennel and is being looked
after by another member of staff.

You will be provided with the dilution rate and contact time of the disinfectant.

Your hands have been cleaned prior to starting the procedure.

You are not required to set up the accommodation or return the patient to it.

Updated December 2023

Intellectual property rights of this OSCE checklist belong to RCVS. Please do not use without permission.

30
This OSCE station assesses the following RCVS Day One Skills for Veterinary Nurses

Section 1 - Legislation Affecting Practice

1.1 Comply with Health and Safety requirements and local risk factors.

1.2 Follow Standard Operating Procedures and manufacturer guidelines when using equipment and materials.

Section 2 - Communication

2.1 Communicate effectively using a variety of different communication models, to include communicating with
colleagues.

Section 4 – Nursing Care

4.5 Provide husbandry to patients, considering accommodation, nutrition, and excretions, to include consider
age, species, condition, demeanour, and enrichment.

Section 8 – Infection Control

8.2 Formulate and implement an appropriate infection control strategy according to practice protocol, to
include constitute appropriate cleaning and disinfectant solutions.

8.2 Formulate and implement an appropriate infection control strategy according to practice protocol, to
include prepare, clean, and maintain patient accommodation that maximises the welfare of hospitalised
patients with non-infectious diseases.

8.3 Dispose of hazardous and non-hazardous waste safely and correctly according to current legislation, to
include dispose of hazardous and non-hazardous waste.

8.4 Ensure appropriate hygiene skills are followed before and after handling animals and equipment, to
include use and dispose of PPE.

31
 ANC 03 - Accommodation Cleaning Achieved Not
achieved

1. Personal protective equipment worn to prevent contamination of nurse.

2. Gross soiling removed from the bedding.

3. Bedding removed and placed into the laundry basket.

4. Accommodation lining removed.

5. Hair and debris removed from the accommodation.

6. Detergent/disinfectant solution prepared according to the manufacturer’s

instructions.
7. Door and Internal surfaces of the accommodation cleaned in a methodical
manner.

8. Disinfectant/detergent solution left in contact with surfaces for the

recommended time.

9. Waste materials disposed of into appropriate waste receptacle.

10. Observations detailed on the hospital record and record stored

appropriately.

32
RCVS Pre-Registration OSCE

OSCE Code ANC 04

This patient has been hospitalised. They have been receiving their nutritional
requirements via a naso-oesophageal feeding tube for three days. They are to
receive their full energy requirement spread over 5 meals per day.

Using the prepared diet indicated by the examiner, you are required to;

a) Determine the volume of food required for each meal using the diet sheet
provided

b) Draw up the correct volume of food

c) Administer the food in the syringe provided by the examiner, to the

patient. Explain to the examiner what you are doing and why, including
what period of time you would normally administer the entire feed.

d) Record the administration of food on the hospital chart provided

Additional notes

You are required to show all your workings including units.

Assume that your hands have been cleaned prior to starting the procedure.

The patient is of a good temperament and does not need to be restrained.

Updated April 2022

Intellectual property rights of this OSCE checklist belong to RCVS. Please do not use without permission.

33
This OSCE station assesses the following RCVS Day One Skills for Veterinary Nurses

Section 1 - Legislation Affecting Practice

1.1 Comply with Health and Safety requirements and local risk factors.

1.2 Follow Standard Operating Procedures and manufacturer guidelines when using equipment and
materials.

Section 3 – Handling and Restraint

3.3 Demonstrate techniques for approaching and handling patients, to include with due regard for patient
needs and behaviours.

Section 4 – Nursing Care

4.5 Provide husbandry to patients, considering accommodation, nutrition and excretions, to include.
Consider age, species, condition, demeanour and enrichment.
Calculate food requirements based on disease and life stage/lifestyle.
Manage assisted feeding to include managing and maintaining feeding tubes.

Section 7 – Dispensing

7.3 Maintain appropriate records to include, hospital charts.

Section 8 – Infection Control

8.3 Dispose of hazardous and non-hazardous waste safely and correctly according to current legislation to
include dispose of hazardous and non-hazardous waste.

8.4 Ensure appropriate hygiene skills are followed before and after handling animals and equipment, to
include use and dispose of PPE.

34
 ANC 04 - Assisted Feeding Achieved Not
achieved

1. Correctly calculated the volume of food required per day.

2. Units included in final answer.

3. Correct volume of food prepared for administration.

4. Personal protective equipment worn to prevent contamination of nurse and

patient.
5. Patency and position of feeding tube checked using a safe technique.
Explained to the examiner what they are doing and why.

6. Volume of food correctly over an appropriate period of time. Examiner told

the correct period of time that they would administer the food.

7. Residual food flushed through the feeding tube and cap replaced.
Explained to the examiner what they are doing and why.

8. External surfaces of the feeding tube left clean.

9. Patient prevented from escaping from accommodation.

10. Hospital record completed with details of the diet used, date, time and
volume of food administered and initials of nurse.

11. If needle(s) used, not re-sheathed at any time or re-sheathed safely.

12. Waste materials disposed of into appropriate waste receptacle.

35
RCVS Pre-Registration OSCE

OSCE Code ANC 05

You are required to administer medication to a patient via a parenteral route.

a. Determine the weight of the patient.

Using this and the information provided on the patient record;

b. Calculate the quantity of medication to be given via the parenteral

route.

c. Prepare and administer the medication via the prescribed route. The
examiner will check the quantity of medication you have drawn up
prior to you administering it.

d. Record the administration of the medication on the hospital chart

provided.

Additional notes

Assume that your hands have been cleaned prior to starting the procedure.

You are required to show all your workings including units.

Updated December 2023

Intellectual property rights of this OSCE checklist belong to RCVS. Please do not use without permission.

36
This OSCE station assesses the following RCVS Day One Skills for Veterinary Nurses

Section 1 - Legislation Affecting Practice

1.1 Comply with Health and Safety requirements and local risk factors.

1.2 Follow Standard Operating Procedures and manufacturer guidelines when using equipment and
materials.

Section 3 – Handling and Restraint

3.5 Use appropriate restraint methods suitable for the patient and situation with due consideration for animal
welfare, to include restrain for administration of medicines.

Section 4 – Nursing Care

4.4 Perform a clinical examination and record findings, to include weight.

4.10 Administer medicines prescribed by the veterinary surgeon in accordance with instruction from the
manufacturer to include;
Subcutaneous administration of medicines.
Intramuscular administration of medicines.

Section 7 – Dispensing

7.1 Ensure safe handling and management of pharmaceuticals in accordance with legislation and
manufacturer guidelines, to include handle medicines in line with legislative guidelines and SPC
requirements.

7.2 Interpret prescriptions and prepare medicines for dispensing, to include calculate drug dosages and
confirm with an appropriately qualified member of the veterinary team.

7.3 Maintain appropriate records to include, hospital charts.

Section 8 – Infection Control

8.3 Dispose of hazardous and non-hazardous waste safely and correctly according to current legislation to
include dispose of hazardous and non-hazardous waste.

8.4 Ensure appropriate hygiene skills are followed before and after handling animals and equipment, to
include use and dispose of PPE.

37
 ANC 05 - Administer Medication Achieved Not
achieved

1. Determined the weight of the patient.

2. Personal protective equipment worn to prevent medication from coming

into contact with nurse’s skin.
3. Correctly calculated the dose of medication to be administered to the
patient.

4. Units included in final answer.

5. Correct medication selected, expiry date and date of first opening

checked.
6. Correct needle and syringe selected and correctly assembled using an
aseptic technique.

7. Correct and aseptic technique used to draw up the correct volume of

medication.

8. Needle changed safely and disposed of appropriately.

9. Assistant asked to restrain patient.

10. Medication administered slowly via the correct route, using an appropriate
and aseptic technique.

11. Needle(s) not resheathed at any time or resheathed safely.

12. Administration of medication recorded fully on patient care plan.

13. Waste materials disposed of into appropriate waste receptacle.

14. Procedure performed without contamination of self or injury.

38
RCVS Pre-Registration OSCE

OSCE Code ANC 06

You are required to dispense medication to a patient to be administered by the

owner at home.

a. Determine the weight of the patient.

Using this and the information provided;

b. Calculate the quantity of medication to be dispensed.

c. From the different dispensing labels provided, select the one which
best meets RCVS labelling recommendations.

d. Complete the dispensing label.

e. Prepare the medicine for supply to the owner.

Additional notes

The patient may be heavy (no more than 10kg) so please take care if you lift it.

For the purposes of this examination, the examiner is the prescribing veterinary
surgeon.

Assume the patient is being restrained.

Assume that your hands have been cleaned prior to starting the procedure.

You are required to show all your workings including units. You may round
your calculation up or down to the nearest decimal point as appropriate.

Updated December 2022

Intellectual property rights of this OSCE checklist belong to RCVS. Please do not use without permission.

39
This OSCE station assesses the following RCVS Day One Skills for Veterinary Nurses

Section 1 - Legislation Affecting Practice

1.1 Comply with Health and Safety requirements and local risk factors.

1.2 Follow Standard Operating Procedures and manufacturer guidelines when using equipment and materials.

Section 3 – Handling and Restraint

3.4 Lead and move animals using the most appropriate equipment for the species and approved manual
handling and lifting procedures, to include lift animals.

Section 4 – Nursing Care

4.4 Perform a clinical examination and record findings, to include weight.

Section 4 – Nursing Care

7.1 Ensure the safe handling and management of pharmaceuticals in accordance with the legislation and
manufacturer guidelines, to include handle medicines in line with legislative guidelines and SPC
requirements.

7.2 Interpret prescriptions and prepare medicines for dispensing to include calculate drug dosages and
confirm with an appropriately qualified member of the veterinary team and package and label in
accordance with legal requirements.

Section 8 – Infection Control

8.4 Ensure appropriate hygiene skills are followed before and after handling animals and equipment, to
include use and dispose of PPE.

40
 ANC 06 - Dispensing Medication Achieved Not
achieved

1. Determine the weight of the patient.

2. Personal protective equipment worn to prevent medication from coming

into contact with nurse’s skin.

3. Correctly calculated the dose of medication to be dispensed.

4. Correct medication selected.

5. Correct quantity of medication dispensed using a suitable method and

container. Container secured tightly.

6. Correct dispensing label selected, completed with the information required

and adhered to the container securely.

7. Label initialled by dispensing nurse and authorisation obtained from the

veterinary surgeon.

8. Waste materials disposed of into appropriate waste receptacle.

41
RCVS Pre-Registration OSCE

OSCE Code ANC 07

Your patient has been admitted for Intravenous (IV) Fluid Therapy. In
preparation for this you are required to place an intravenous catheter with a T-
connector into your patient.

The veterinary surgeon requests that you;

a. Select and prepare the equipment for the placement of the IV catheter and
T-connector. Explain to the examiner any checks you are making.

b. Prepare the clipped forelimb and place the IV catheter into the cephalic
vein.

Additional notes

Assume that your hands have been cleaned prior to starting the procedure.

The patient’s forelimb has been clipped ready for intravenous catheter
placement.

You are not required to connect the patient to a drip.

Updated December 2023

Intellectual property rights of this OSCE checklist belong to RCVS. Please do not use without permission.

42
This OSCE station assesses the following RCVS Day One Skills for Veterinary Nurses

Section 1 - Legislation Affecting Practice

1.1 Comply with Health and Safety requirements and local risk factors.

1.2 Follow Standard Operating Procedures and manufacturer guidelines when using equipment and
materials.

Section 4 – Nursing Care

4.12 Provide fluid therapy to in-patients. To include; place intravenous catheters into appropriate veins.

Section 8 – Infection Control

8.4 Ensure appropriate hygiene skills are followed before and after handling animals and equipment,
to include use and dispose of PPE.

43
 ANC 07 - IV Catheter Placement Achieved Not
achieved

1. All necessary equipment selected and prepared for the placement of the
IV cannula.

2. Selected and prepared T-connector.

3. Personal protective equipment worn to prevent contamination of nurse and

patient.

4. Used an aseptic technique to prepare the IV catheter insertion site.

5. Assistant asked to raise the vein in a suitable manner.

6. Used an aseptic technique to place and secure the IV catheter.

7. IV catheter placement checked using a recognised technique.

8. Using an aseptic technique connected and secured the T-connector.

9. Applied bandage materials to secure and protect the catheter and T-

connector.
10. Waste materials disposed of into appropriate waste receptacle.

11. Procedure performed without contamination of self or injury.

44
RCVS Pre-Registration OSCE

OSCE Code ANC 08

You are required to administer medication to patient via a naso-oesophageal

feeding tube.

Using the information provided on the patient record;

a. Calculate the quantity of medication to be given.

b. Prepare and administer the medication via the prescribed route. The
examiner will check the quantity of medication you have drawn up prior to
you administering it.

c. During the administration, explain to the examiner what you are doing
and why.

d. Record the administration of the medication on the hospital chart provided.

Additional notes

You are required to show all your workings including units.

Assume that your hands have been cleaned prior to starting the procedure.

The patient is of a good temperament and does not need to be restrained.

Updated April 2023

Intellectual property rights of this OSCE checklist belong to RCVS. Please do not use without permission

45
This OSCE station assesses the following RCVS Day One Skills for Veterinary Nurses

Section 1 - Legislation Affecting Practice

1.1 Comply with Health and Safety requirements and local risk factors.

1.2 Follow Standard Operating Procedures and manufacturer guidelines when using equipment and
materials.

Section 3 – Handling and Restraint

3.4 Lead and move animals using the most appropriate equipment for the species and approved
manual handling and lifting procedures, to include lift animals.

Section 4 – Nursing Care

4.4 Perform a clinical examination and record findings, to include weight.

Section 7 – Dispensing

7.1 Ensure the safe handling and management of pharmaceuticals in accordance with the legislation
and manufacturer guidelines, to include handle medicines in line with legislative guidelines and
SPC requirements.

7.2 Interpret prescriptions and prepare medicines for dispensing to include calculate drug dosages
and confirm with an appropriately qualified member of the veterinary team and package and
label in accordance with legal requirements.

Section 8 – Infection Control

8.4 Ensure appropriate hygiene skills are followed before and after handling animals and equipment,
to include use and dispose of PPE.

46
 ANC 08 - Administer Oral Medication Achieved Not
achieved

1. Correctly calculated the dose of medication to be administered to the

patient.

2. Units included in final answer.

3. Correct medication selected, expiry date and date of first opening

checked.

4. Personal protective equipment worn to prevent medication from coming

into contact with nurse’s skin.

5. Correct volume of medication prepared for administration.

6. Patency and position of feeding tube checked using a safe technique.

7. Medication administered slowly via the correct route, using an appropriate

and aseptic technique.

8. Residual medication flushed through the feeding tube and cap replaced.

9. External surfaces of the feeding tube left clean.

10. Patient prevented from escaping from accommodation.

11. Administration of medication recorded fully on patient care plan.

12. Waste materials disposed of into appropriate waste receptacle.

13. Procedure performed without contamination of self or injury.

47
RCVS Pre-Registration OSCE

OSCE Code ANC 09

You are required to administer medication intravenously to a patient.

a. Determine the weight of the patient.

Using this and the information provided;

b. Calculate the quantity of medication to be given via the prescribed

route.

c. Prepare and administer the medication via the prescribed route. The
examiner will check the quantity of medication you have drawn up
prior to you administering the medication.

d. Record the administration of the medication on the hospital chart

provided.

Additional notes

Assume that your hands have been cleaned prior to starting the procedure.

You are required to show all your workings including units.

Updated December 2023

Intellectual property rights of this OSCE checklist belong to RCVS. Please do not use without permission.

48
This OSCE station assesses the following RCVS Day One Skills for Veterinary Nurses

Section 1 - Legislation Affecting Practice

1.1 Comply with Health and Safety requirements and local risk factors.

1.2 Follow Standard Operating Procedures and manufacturer guidelines when using equipment and
materials.

Section 3 – Handling and Restraint

3.5 Use appropriate restraint methods suitable for the patient and situation with due consideration for animal
welfare, to include restrain for administration of medicines.

Section 4 – Nursing Care

4.10 Administer medicines prescribed by the veterinary surgeon in accordance with instructions from the
manufacturer to include intravenous administration of medicines.

Section 7 – Dispensing

7.2 Interpret prescriptions and prepare medicines for dispensing, calculate drug dosages, and confirm with
an appropriately qualified member of the veterinary team.

7.3 Maintain appropriate records, to include hospital charts.

Section 8 – Infection Control

8.3 Dispose of hazardous and non-hazardous waste safely and correctly according to current legislation, to
include dispose of medications.

8.4 Ensure appropriate hygiene skills are followed before and after handling animals and equipment, to
include use and dispose of PPE.

49
 ANC 09 - Administer IV Medication Achieved Not
achieved

1. Determine the weight of the patient.

2. Personal protective equipment worn to prevent medication from coming

into contact with nurse’s skin.

3. Correctly calculated the dose of medication to be administered to the

patient.

4. Units included in final answer.

5. Correct medication selected, expiry date and date of first opening

checked.
6. Selected and aseptically prepared the equipment required to administer
the medication.
7. Correct and aseptic technique used to draw up the calculated volume of
medication.
8. Administration site prepared and patency of the IV catheter checked.

9. Correct medication administered slowly via the correct route, using an

appropriate and aseptic technique.

10. Needle(s) not resheathed at any time or resheathed safely.

11. Administration of medication recorded fully on patient care plan.

12. Waste materials disposed of into appropriate waste receptacle.

13. Procedure performed without contamination of self or injury.

50
RCVS Pre-Registration OSCE

OSCE Code ANC 10

You are required to administer a Schedule 2 medication to a patient via an

intravenous route (IV).

Using the information provided;

a. Prepare and administer the medication via the prescribed route. The
examiner will check the quantity of medication you have drawn up
prior to you administering the medication.

b. Record the administration of the medication in the required

documentation.

Additional notes

Assume that your hands have been cleaned prior to starting the procedure.

You are not required to calculate the drug dose.

The examiner is the prescribing veterinary surgeon and controlled drugs

cabinet key holder.

Updated December 2023

Intellectual property rights of this OSCE checklist belong to RCVS. Please do not use without permission.

51
This OSCE station assesses the following RCVS Day One Skills for Veterinary Nurses

Section 1 - Legislation Affecting Practice

1.1 Comply with Health and Safety requirements and local risk factors.

1.2 Follow Standard Operating Procedures and manufacturer guidelines when using equipment and
materials.

Section 4 – Nursing Care

4.10 Administer medicines prescribed by the veterinary surgeon in accordance with instructions from the
manufacturer to include intravenous administration of medicines.

4.12 Manage intravenous catheters.

Section 7 – Dispensing

7.1 Ensure safe handling and management of pharmaceuticals in accordance with legislation and
manufacturer guidelines, to include;
Store medicines in line with legislative guidelines and SPC requirements.
Handles medicines in line with legislative guidelines and SPC requirements.
Dispose of medicines in line with legislative guidelines and SPC requirements.
Controlled drugs.

7.2 Interpret prescriptions and prepare medicines for dispensing, to include;

Calculate drug dosages and confirm with an appropriately qualified member of the veterinary team.
Package and label in accordance with legal requirements.

7.3 Maintain appropriate records, to include controlled drugs and hospital charts.

Section 8 – Infection Control

8.3 Dispose of hazardous and non-hazardous waste safely and correctly according to current legislation, to
include dispose of hazardous waste and medications.

8.4 Ensure appropriate hygiene skills are followed before and after handling animals and equipment, to
include use and dispose of PPE.

52
 ANC 10 - Administer IV Controlled Drug Achieved Not
achieved

1. Personal protective equipment worn to prevent medication from coming

into contact with nurse’s skin.

2. Selected and aseptically prepared the equipment required to administer

the medication.
3. Correct medication selected, expiry date and date of first opening
checked.
4. Correct and aseptic technique used to draw up the prescribed volume of
medication.

5. Controlled drug and cabinet key stored as per regulatory requirements.

6. Completed controlled drugs register fully as per regulatory requirements.

7. Administration site prepared and patency of the IV catheter checked.

8. Medication administered slowly via the correct route, using an appropriate

and aseptic technique.

9. Needle(s) not resheathed at any time or resheathed safely.

10. Administration of medication recorded fully on patient care plan.

11. Waste materials disposed of into appropriate waste receptacle.

12. Procedure performed without contamination of self or injury.

53
Communication

The following OSCE stations could be used in your examination

COM 01 Admit patient

COM 02 Discharge patient

Feedback from the examiners

Microchip

Candidates do not check the microchip number against all of the available patient information.

Informed consent

Candidates do not gain enough information to ensure that owner is aware of the procedure that will be
undertaken and is consenting to it. Examiners suggest that candidates read the following.

https://www.rcvs.org.uk/setting-standards/advice-and-guidance/code-of-professional-conduct-for-
veterinary-surgeons/supporting-guidance/communication-and-consent/

54
RCVS Pre-Registration OSCE

OSCE Code COM 01

The veterinary surgeon has asked you to admit a patient for a

surgical/medical procedure. You are required to;

a. Prepare for the admission, becoming familiar with the patient history
and complete the admission form (can be completed during the 10-
minute prep time).

b. Greet the owner and invite them into the admission area.

c. Gather any additional information and explain the procedure that will be
performed.

d. Gain informed consent from the owner/agent.

e. Bring the meeting to a close by showing the owner back into the
waiting room.

Additional information

You will be provided with the patient history and other documents; you have
10 minutes to prepare everything you need to complete the admission
including making notes. Following this you will be taken to the consulting room
where you will have 10 minutes to carry out the admission.

Assume that your hands have been cleaned prior to starting the procedure.

You are not required to perform a clinical examination.

You are not required to prepare the inpatient sheet or care plan.

Updated December 2023

Intellectual property rights of this OSCE checklist belong to RCVS. Please do not use without permission.

55
This OSCE station assesses the following RCVS Day One Skills for Veterinary Nurses

Section 1 - Legislation Affecting Practice

1.1 Comply with Health and Safety requirements and local risk factors.

1.2 Follow Standard Operating Procedures and manufacturer guidelines when using equipment and materials.

Section 2 – Communication

2.1 Communicate effectively using a variety of different communication models, to include communicate with
clients.

2.2 Create accurate and legible written communications/documentation according to practice policy, to include
admission and consent forms.

2.3 Access and store client and practice records according to practice policy and data protection.

2.4 Admit patients to include obtain written and verbal informed consent.

2.5 Conduct effective nursing consultations, to include history taking.

56
 COM 01 - Admit Patient Achieved Not
achieved

1. Owner/agent invited into consulting room.

2. Candidate introduced themselves.

3. Procedure(s) explained to the owner/agent using appropriate language.

4. Obtained information in relation to the patient and their individual needs.

5. Confirmed the patient’s identity and sex using practice protocol.

6. Labelled the patient and their possessions.

7. Prepared the consent form (can be started during the 10-minute reading
time).

8. Confirmed with owner/agent that information on the consent form is

correct.

9. Owner/agent given the opportunity to read sign/date the consent form.

10. Informed consent gained.

11. Owner/agent provided with information about when and how they will be
informed about the time that the patient is ready for collection.

12. Owner/agent questions answered clearly.

13. Verbally concluded the meeting and showed the owner/agent into the
waiting area.

14. Patient safety maintained throughout the consult.

15. Demonstrated appropriate positioning/body language and eye contact

during admit consultation.

16. Spoke clearly throughout at a good pace.

17. Conveyed warmth and empathy and remained polite and courteous
throughout.

18. Used open-ended questions as appropriate.

19. Good comprehension and use of English Language (verbal and/or

written).

57
RCVS Pre-Registration OSCE

OSCE Code COM 02

An owner has arrived to collect their pet after a routine surgical procedure.

You are required to;

a. Select the correct medication, diet and discharge notes for the patient.

b. Explain all aspects of post-operative care for the patient.

c. Return the patient to the owner.

Additional information

You will be provided with the patient history and other documents; you have
10 minutes to prepare everything you need to complete the discharge
including making notes. Following this you will be taken to the consulting room
where you will have 10 minutes to carry out the admission.

The times given on the hospital record do not correspond to the actual time of
that you are sitting the examination.

Tell the examiner when you are ready to return the patient to the owner.

You are not expected to take payment from the client.

Updated December 2023

Intellectual property rights of this OSCE checklist belong to RCVS. Please do not use without permission.

58
This OSCE station assesses the following RCVS Day One Skills for Veterinary Nurses

Section 1 - Legislation Affecting Practice

1.1 Comply with Health and Safety requirements and local risk factors.

1.2 Follow Standard Operating Procedures and manufacturer guidelines when using equipment and materials.

Section 2 – Communication

2.1 Communicate effectively using a variety of different communication models, to include communicate with
clients.

2.2 Create accurate and legible written communications/documentation according to practice policy, to include
client home care plans and instructions.

2.7 Provide discharge information and guidance to owners, to include;

Discuss home care plans.
Advise clients on safe and correct routes of administration of medication.
Advise clients on the potential side effects of medication.
Demonstrate to client’s safe techniques for administering medication.
Provide clients with bandage care advice.
Advise clients on out of hours services.

Section 7 – Dispensing

7.1 Ensure safe handling and management of pharmaceuticals in accordance with legislation and manufacturer
guidelines to include handle medicines in line with legislative guidelines and SPC requirements.

59
 COM 02 - Discharge Patient Achieved Not
achieved

1. Correct discharge instructions, diet and medication selected.

2. Owner/agent invited into consulting room.

3. Candidate introduced themselves.

4. Informed the owner/agent of the purpose of the discharge consult and

summarised the procedure.

5. Post op care and observations explained to the owner/agent.

6. Post op confinement and restricted exercise explained to the owner/agent.

7. Post op feeding regime explained to the owner/agent.

8. Post op medication regime explained including adverse reactions.

9. Checks made to ensure the owner/agent understands how to give the

medication and is actually confident to give the medication.

10. Explained the importance of returning for the post op check and how this
can be booked.

11. Owner/agent provided with correct written discharge information, diet and
medication.

12. Checked the owner/agent understands the post op care and asked if they
have any questions.

13. Highlighted to the owner/agent the contact details for the practice including
out of hours provision.

14. Returned the patient to the owner/agent.

15. Verbally concluded the meeting and showed the owner/agent into the
waiting area.
16. Demonstrated appropriate positioning/body language and eye contact
while explaining the procedure.

17. Spoke clearly throughout at a good pace.

18. Conveyed warmth and empathy and remained polite and courteous
throughout.

19. Used open-ended questions as appropriate.

20. Good comprehension and use of English Language (verbal and/or

written).

60
Dressings and Bandages

The following OSCE stations could be used in your examination

DAB 01 Bandage Limb

DAB 02 Abdominal bandage and wound care

DAB 03 Wound care and bandage

DAB 04 Remove bandage and swab wound

DAB 05 Haemorrhage Support

Feedback from the examiners

Tension of bandage

Examiners report that a number of candidates fail to apply a bandage of correct tension.

Should toes be exposed or enclosed?

Where appropriate examiners will accept a bandage technique where the foot is enclosed, or the
middle toes are exposed. In addition, for the abdominal bandage the candidate can chose to anchor
it to prevent slippage.

61
RCVS Pre-Registration OSCE

OSCE Code DAB 01

Your patient has sustained an abrasion / burn or has an infected wound.

The veterinary surgeon has requested that you;

a. Apply the correct dressing type.

b. Bandage the limb.

Additional notes

The examiner will verbally tell you the location of the wound and the dressing
type required.

The patient is anaesthetised and is being monitored.

Assume that your hands have been cleaned prior to starting the procedure.

Assume the patient’s wound has been cleaned.

Updated August 2023

Intellectual property rights of this OSCE checklist belong to RCVS. Please do not use without permission.

62
This OSCE station assesses the following RCVS Day One Skills for Veterinary Nurses

Section 1 - Legislation Affecting Practice

1.1 Comply with Health and Safety requirements and local risk factors.

1.2 Follow Standard Operating Procedures and manufacturer guidelines when using equipment and
materials.

Section 2 – Communication

2.1 Communicate effectively using a variety of different methods, to include colleagues.

Section 4 – Nursing Care

4.7 Assess, monitor, manage and report the status of wounds to the appropriate member of the
veterinary team, to include assess wounds.

4.8 Apply dressings appropriate to type of wound.

4.9 Apply bandages appropriate to species and condition.

Section 8 – Infection Control

8.3 Dispose of hazardous and non-hazardous waste safely and correctly according to current legislation,
to include hazardous and non-hazardous waste.

8.4 Ensure appropriate hygiene skills are followed before and after handling animals and equipment, to
include use and dispose of PPE.

63
 DAB 01 – Bandage Limb Achieved Not
achieved

1. Personal protective equipment worn to prevent contamination of nurse and

patient.

2. All necessary bandaging materials and equipment selected prior to

starting the bandage.

3. Patient restrained by an assistant in an appropriate recumbency or

position (limb fully accessible) and supported.

4. Aseptically applied wound dressing with correct side facing wound. Side
facing wound not touched.

5. Padding applied between the toes (as far as is possible on the model).

6. Padding layer applied over the limb.

7. Conforming bandage applied.

8. Outer protective layer applied.

9. Bandage material applied from distal to proximal limb.

10. Bandage material applied in correct order ensuring each rotation covers ½
- ⅔ of previous rotation.

11. Candidate checked bandage is neat and of the appropriate tension

throughout.
12. Limb handled gently throughout with careful management of the wound.

13. Waste materials disposed of into appropriate waste receptacle.

14. Functional Bandage applied – tension not too tight.

15. Functional Bandage applied – tension not too loose.

64
RCVS Pre-Registration OSCE

OSCE Code DAB 02

Your patient has had an abdominal surgical wound breakdown. A bacterial

swab has already been taken for culture.

The veterinary surgeon has requested that you;

a. Clean the wound.

b. Apply a wound dressing and retaining abdominal bandage.

Additional notes

The patient is conscious and of good nature.

Assume that your hands have been cleaned prior to starting the procedure.

Updated April 2022

Intellectual property rights of this OSCE checklist belong to RCVS. Please do not use without permission.

65
This OSCE station assesses the following RCVS Day One Skills for Veterinary Nurses

Section 1 - Legislation Affecting Practice

1.1 Comply with Health and Safety requirements and local risk factors.

1.2 Follow Standard Operating Procedures and manufacturer guidelines when using equipment and
materials.

Section 3 – Handling and Restraint

3.1 Evaluate behavioural and environmental factors when approaching and handling animals to include
recognition of/and minimising fear.

3.2 Select and wear appropriate personal protective equipment.

3.3 Demonstrate techniques for approaching and handling animals.

Section 4 – Nursing Care

4.7 Assess, monitor, manage and report the status of wounds to the appropriate member of the veterinary
team, to include assess wounds.

4.8 Apply dressings appropriate to type of wound.

4.9 Apply bandages appropriate to species and condition.

Section 8 – Infection Control

8.3 Dispose of hazardous and non-hazardous waste safely and correctly according to current legislation, to
include hazardous and non-hazardous waste.

8.4 Ensure appropriate hygiene skills are followed before and after handling animals and equipment, to
include use and dispose of PPE.

66
 DAB 02 - Abdominal Bandage and Wound Care Achieved Not
achieved

1. Personal protective equipment worn to prevent contamination of nurse and

patient.

2. All necessary bandaging materials and equipment selected prior to

starting bandage.

3. All necessary equipment prepared to clean the sutured wound.

4. Patient restrained by an assistant in an appropriate recumbency or

position (area of interest fully accessible) and supported.

5. Wound and surrounding area gently cleaned without further

contamination.

6. Surrounding areas (wound & environment) left dry.

7. Aseptically applied wound dressing with correct side facing wound. Side
facing wound not touched.

8. Padding applied over abdomen.

9. Conforming bandage applied.

10. Outer protective layer applied.

11. Bandage applied to prevent slipping.

12. Prepuce remains uncovered (if applicable).

13. Bandage applied caudal to cranial.

14. Bandage material applied in correct order ensuring each rotation covers ½
- ⅔ of previous rotation.

15. Candidate checked bandage is neat and of the appropriate tension

throughout.

16. Patient handled gently throughout with careful management of the wound.

17. Waste materials disposed of into appropriate waste receptacle.

18. Functional Bandage applied – tension not too tight.

19. Functional Bandage applied – tension not too loose.

67
RCVS Pre-Registration OSCE

OSCE Code DAB 03

Your patient has sustained a wound / abrasion.

The veterinary surgeon has requested that you;

a. Clean the wound / abrasion.

b. Apply a dressing to the wound / abrasion.

Additional notes

The patient is anaesthetised and is being monitored.

Assume that your hands have been cleaned prior to starting the procedure.

The examiner will tell you where the wound / abrasion is located from one of the following

Paw

Carpus

Updated April 2019

Intellectual property rights of this OSCE checklist belong to RCVS. Please do not use without permission.

68
This OSCE station assesses the following RCVS Day One Skills for Veterinary Nurses

Section 1 - Legislation Affecting Practice

1.1 Comply with Health and Safety requirements and local risk factors.

1.2 Follow Standard Operating Procedures and manufacturer guidelines when using equipment and
materials.

Section 4 – Nursing Care

4.7 Assess, monitor, manage and report the status of wounds to the appropriate member of the veterinary
team, to include assess wounds.

4.8 Apply dressings appropriate to type of wound.

4.9 Apply bandages appropriate to species and condition.

Section 8 – Infection Control

8.3 Dispose of hazardous and non-hazardous waste safely and correctly according to current legislation, to
include hazardous and non-hazardous waste.

8.4 Ensure appropriate hygiene skills are followed before and after handling animals and equipment, to
include use and dispose of PPE.

69
 DAB 03 - Wound Care and Bandage Achieved Not
achieved

1. Personal protective equipment worn to prevent contamination of nurse and

patient.

2. All necessary bandaging materials and equipment selected prior to

starting the bandage.
3. All necessary equipment prepared to clean the wound/abrasion.

4. Patient restrained by an assistant in an appropriate recumbency or

position (limb fully accessible) and supported.

5. Wound and surrounding area gently cleaned without further

contamination.

6. Surrounding areas (wound & environment) left dry.

7. Aseptically applied wound dressing with correct side facing wound. Side
facing wound not touched.

8. Padding applied between the toes (as far as is possible on the model).

9. Padding layer applied over the limb.

10. Conforming bandage applied.

11. Outer protective layer applied.

12. Bandage material applied from distal to proximal limb.

13. Bandage material applied in correct order ensuring each rotation covers ½
- ⅔ of previous rotation.

14. Candidate checked bandage is neat and of the appropriate tension

throughout.

15. Limb handled gently throughout with careful management of the wound.

16. Waste materials disposed of into appropriate waste receptacle.

17. Functional Bandage applied – tension not too tight.

18. Functional Bandage applied – tension not too loose.

70
RCVS Pre-Registration OSCE

OSCE Code DAB 04

Your patient sustained a wound on the left metacarpal pad, which was
debrided and bandaged two days ago. The wound is now suspected to be
infected.

The veterinary surgeon has requested that you;

a. Remove the bandage.

b. Prior to cleaning the wound, swab it for bacterial culture and sensitivity
and complete the laboratory submission form.

c. Clean the wound ready for inspection by the veterinary surgeon.

d. Verbally report your observations and findings to the veterinary

surgeon.

Additional notes

The patient is sedated and is being monitored.

Assume that your hands have been cleaned prior to starting the procedure.

You are not required to replace the bandage.

You do not need to package the sample for posting.

For the purpose of the examination, the examiner is the veterinary surgeon for
part c and d.

Updated December 2023

Intellectual property rights of this OSCE checklist belong to RCVS. Please do not use without permission.

71
This OSCE station assesses the following RCVS Day One Skills for Veterinary Nurses

Section 1 - Legislation Affecting Practice

1.1 Comply with Health and Safety requirements and local risk factors.

1.2 Follow Standard Operating Procedures and manufacturer guidelines when using equipment and materials.

Section 4 – Nursing Care

4.7 Assess, monitor, manage and report the status of wounds to the appropriate member of the veterinary
team, to include assess wounds and report the status of wounds to the appropriate member of the
veterinary team.

4.8 Apply dressings appropriate to type of wound.

4.9 Apply bandages appropriate to species and condition.

Section 5 – Laboratory Techniques

5.1 Discuss with the veterinary surgeon and prepare for an appropriate sampling strategy, to include personal
protective equipment and preparation of equipment.

5.2 Safely and effectively take appropriate samples to include bacterial swabs.

5.8 Prepare samples for external analysis to include;

Accurate completion of documentation.
Correct packaging and labelling.
Correct preservation.
Correct storage.

Section 8 – Infection Control

8.3 Dispose of hazardous and non-hazardous waste safely and correctly according to current legislation, to
include hazardous and non-hazardous waste.

8.4 Ensure appropriate hygiene skills are followed before and after handling animals and equipment, to
include use and dispose of PPE.

72
 DAB 04 - Remove Bandage and Swab Wound Achieved Not
achieved

1. Personal protective equipment worn to prevent contamination of nurse,

patient and equipment.

2. Selected and prepared equipment to swab and clean the wound.

3. Removed bandage / dressing without further contamination.

4. Swabbed surface of wound without further damage or contamination.

5. Wound and surrounding area gently cleaned without further

contamination.

6. Surrounding areas (wound & environment) left dry.

7. Sample labelled with patient details and date.

8. Completed lab form & left with swab in lab tray for packaging later.

9. Verbally reported observations and findings clearly and accurately to

veterinary surgeon.

10. Limb handled gently throughout with careful management of the wound.

11. Waste materials disposed of into appropriate waste receptacle.

12. Procedure performed without contamination of self or equipment.

73
RCVS Pre-Registration OSCE

OSCE Code DAB 05

A client has arrived at the practice with their dog who has cut his paw while
out walking. They have applied a temporary bandage to stem the bleeding.

You have been asked to administer first aid in the absence of a veterinary
surgeon.

a. Remove the bandage applied by the owner.

b. Using the equipment provided apply an appropriate pressure bandage

to stem the bleeding.

Additional notes

The patient is conscious

Assume that your hands have been cleaned prior to starting the procedure.

You are not expected to:

• assess the patient’s vital signs.

• explore, clean or flush the wound.

• apply a tourniquet.

Updated December 2023

Intellectual property rights of this OSCE checklist belong to RCVS. Please do not use without permission.

74
This OSCE station assesses the following RCVS Day One Skills for Veterinary Nurses

Section 1 - Legislation Affecting Practice

1.1 Comply with Health and Safety requirements and local risk factors.

1.2 Follow Standard Operating Procedures and manufacturer guidelines when using equipment and
materials.

Section 4 – Nursing Care

4.7 Assess, monitor, manage and report the status of wounds to the appropriate member of the veterinary
team, to include assess wounds.

4.8 Apply dressings appropriate to type of wound.

4.9 Apply bandages appropriate to species and condition.

4.15 Administer first aid for a range of situations within the limits of the law and the expertise of the student.
First aid is defined as care that can be carried out by a lay person.

Section 8 – Infection Control

8.3 Dispose of hazardous and non-hazardous waste safely and correctly according to current legislation,
to include hazardous and non-hazardous waste.

8.4 Ensure appropriate hygiene skills are followed before and after handling animals and equipment, to
include use and dispose of PPE.

75
 DAB 05 - Haemorrhage Support Achieved Not
achieved

1. Personal protective equipment worn to prevent contamination of nurse and

patient.

2. All necessary bandaging materials and equipment selected which may be

required to stem the flow of blood.

3. Patient restrained by an assistant in an appropriate recumbency or

position (limb fully accessible) and supported.

4. Removed the temporary bandage without further trauma.

5. Applied dressing to stem the flow of blood.

6. Padding layer applied over the limb.

7. Conforming bandage applied.

8. Outer protective layer applied.

9. Effectiveness of first aid measure checked.

10. Waste materials disposed of into appropriate waste receptacle.

76
Laboratory Diagnostic Techniques

The following OSCE stations could be used in your examination

LDT 01 PCV and blood smear

LDT 02 Blood sample collection

LDT 03 Haematology

LDT 04 Urine sample collection

LDT 05 Urinalysis

LDT 06 PCV

LDT 07 Skin scrape

LDT 08 Blood smear examination

LDT 09 Urine Crystals

Feedback from the examiners

Handling of samples

Candidates are reminded to read the scenario and ensure that they prepare all of the samples to be
sent to the laboratory.

The scenario or patient record also contains details of the test which needs to be completed so there
should be no reason for candidates to complete the test details on the form incorrectly.

It is also important that when you are required to perform the test as part of the examination you
should ensure that the sample is inverted to mix the sample before testing.

Recording results

Candidates are reducing their marks because they do not record the results of the urine test correctly.

Packing Laboratory samples

Candidates are encouraged to familiarise themselves with UN packaging instructions P650

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/packaging-and-transport-requirements-for-patient-
samples-un3373/packaging-and-transport-requirements-for-patient-samples-un3373

Use of Centrifuge

Candidates are not always aware of the different settings (time and speed) used for centrifuging blood
and urine.

77
Collecting urine samples

Candidates are encouraged to familiarise themselves with using a three-way tap.

Candidates need to ensure that they are familiar with common urinary crystals found in dogs.

Vernier scale readings

Candidates need to ensure that they are familiar with the process of reading the vernier scale on
microscopes.

78
RCVS Pre-Registration OSCE

OSCE Code LDT 01

You are nursing a patient with anaemia. The veterinary surgeon has asked
you to perform a PCV and a blood smear.

a. Prepare and record the PCV for this patient.

b. Using the pre-cleaned microscope slides and spreader slides perform

the blood smear.

c. Check and comment on the quality of the smear you have prepared.

d. Stain the blood smear provided by the examiner using the Diff-QuikTM
solutions.

Additional information

Assume that your hands have been cleaned prior to starting the procedure
Please tell the examiner which method you would like to use to read the PCV.
The following will be available
• Ruler and Calculator
• Micro Haematocrit Reader
• Card Reader

Updated December 2023

Intellectual property rights of this OSCE checklist belong to RCVS. Please do not use without permission.

79
This OSCE station assesses the following RCVS Day One Skills for Veterinary Nurses

Section 1 - Legislation Affecting Practice

1.1 Comply with Health and Safety requirements and local risk factors.

1.2 Follow Standard Operating Procedures and manufacturer guidelines when using equipment and materials.

Section 5 – Laboratory Techniques

5.1 Discuss with the veterinary surgeon and prepare for an appropriate sampling strategy to include;
PPE.
Preparation of equipment.
Blood.

5.4 Carry out haematological analysis, to include packed cell volume and blood smear.

Section 8 – Infection Control

8.3 Dispose of hazardous and non-hazardous waste safely and correctly according to current legislation, to
include hazardous waste.

8.4 Ensure appropriate hygiene skills are followed before and after handling animals and equipment, to include
use and dispose of PPE.

80
 LDT 01 - PCV and Blood Smear Achieved Not
achieved

1. Personal protective equipment worn to protect the nurse from

contamination.

2. Appropriate blood sample selected.

3. Sample inverted gently to mix.

4. Two capillary tubes prepared.

5. Capillary tubes placed into centrifuge correctly.

6. Correctly set the centrifuge time and speed.

7. Centrifuge used safely.

8. PCV determined and recorded as a percentage on the patient record card.

9. Blood smear of reasonable diagnostic quality produced.

10. Blood smear labelled with patient information and date.

11. Blood smear appraised accurately.

12. Blood smear stained and rinsed using the Diff-QuikTM stain provided.

13. Slide left to dry.

14. Waste materials disposed of into appropriate waste receptacle.

15. Blood smear and PCV performed without contamination of self or

equipment.

81
RCVS Pre-Registration OSCE

OSCE Code LDT 02

You are nursing a patient with anaemia. The veterinary surgeon has asked
you to obtain a blood sample from this patient for haematological evaluation.

a. Prepare equipment and obtain a blood sample for haematological

evaluation from the patient’s jugular vein.

b. Package the sample to meet UN packaging instruction P650, ready for

dispatch to the external laboratory. This will be collected by courier.

Additional Information

Assume that your hands may be contaminated from handling a previous

patient. You should therefore demonstrate hand hygiene using the WHO
technique.

The patient has previously had the hair clipped from the sample site.

Updated December 2023

Intellectual property rights of this OSCE checklist belong to RCVS. Please do not use without permission.

82
This OSCE station assesses the following RCVS Day One Skills for Veterinary Nurses

Section 1 - Legislation Affecting Practice

1.1 Comply with Health and Safety requirements and local risk factors.

1.2 Follow Standard Operating Procedures and manufacturer guidelines when using equipment and materials.

Section 2 – Communication

2.7 Complete appropriate paperwork for referral and diagnostic services, to include for laboratory samples.

Section 3 – Handling and Restraint

3.3 Demonstrate techniques for approaching and handling animals, to include demonstrate techniques for
handling animals.

3.5 Use appropriate restraint methods suitable for the patient and situation with due consideration for animal
welfare, to include restrain for sample collection.

Section 5 – Laboratory Techniques

5.1 Discuss with the veterinary surgeon and prepare for an appropriate sampling strategy to include;
PPE.
Preparing samples site.
Preparation of equipment.
Blood.

5.2 Safely and effectively take appropriate samples, to include blood.

5.4 Carry out haematological analysis to include haematology.

5.8 Prepare samples for external analysis, to include;

Accurate completion of documentation.
Correct packaging and labelling.
Correct preservation.
Correct storage.

5.9 Records laboratory test results and communicate accurately to the appropriate member of the veterinary
team, to include records laboratory test results.

Section 8 – Infection Control

8.3 Dispose of hazardous and non-hazardous waste safely and correctly according to current legislation, to
include hazardous waste.

8.4 Ensure appropriate hygiene skills are followed before and after handling animals and equipment, to include
use and dispose of PPE.

83
 LDT 02 - Blood Sample Collection Achieved Not
achieved

1. Hand hygiene carried out at an appropriate time using the WHO

technique.

2. Equipment for collection of blood sample selected and prepared

aseptically.
3. Personal protective equipment worn to prevent contamination of nurse and
patient.
4. Assistant asked to restrain patient.

5. Skin cleaned over venepuncture site.

6. Vein raised and blood sample obtained using an aseptic technique.

7. Pressure applied over venepuncture site.

8. Correctly filled blood tube with blood and lid secured.

9. Needle(s) not resheathed at any time or resheathed safely.

10. Sample inverted gently to mix.

11. Sample labelled with patient details and date.

12. Laboratory form completed fully and accurately.

13. Sample packed to meet UN P650 packaging instructions.

14. Waste materials disposed of into appropriate waste receptacle.

15. Procedure performed without contamination of self or equipment.

84
RCVS Pre-Registration OSCE

OSCE Code LDT 03

You are nursing a patient with anaemia. The veterinary surgeon has asked
you to prepare a blood sample for haematology to be carried out by an
external laboratory. Using the blood and the pre-cleaned microscope slides
and spreader slides provided;

a. Perform a blood smear.

b. Check and comment on the quality of the smear you have prepared for
the external laboratory.

c. Stain the blood smear provided using the Diff-QuikTM solutions.

d. Package both the blood sample and the blood smear to meet UN
packaging instruction P650, ready for dispatch to the external laboratory.
This will be collected by courier.

Additional Information

Assume that your hands have been cleaned prior to starting the procedure

Updated December 2023

Intellectual property rights of this OSCE checklist belong to RCVS. Please do not use without permission.

85
This OSCE station assesses the following RCVS Day One Skills for Veterinary Nurses

Section 1 - Legislation Affecting Practice

1.1 Comply with Health and Safety requirements and local risk factors.

1.2 Follow Standard Operating Procedures and manufacturer guidelines when using equipment and materials.

Section 2 – Communication

2.7 Complete appropriate paperwork for referral and diagnostic services, to include for laboratory samples.

Section 5 – Laboratory Techniques

5.1 Discuss with the veterinary surgeon and prepare for an appropriate sampling strategy to include;
PPE.
Preparing samples site.
Preparation of equipment.
Blood.

5.2 Safely and effectively take appropriate samples, to include blood.

5.4 Carry out haematological analysis to include haematology.

5.8 Prepare samples for external analysis, to include;

Accurate completion of documentation.
Correct packaging and labelling.
Correct preservation.
Correct storage.

5.9 Records laboratory test results and communicate accurately to the appropriate member of the veterinary
team, to include records laboratory test results.

Section 8 – Infection Control

8.3 Dispose of hazardous and non-hazardous waste safely and correctly according to current legislation, to
include hazardous waste.

8.4 Ensure appropriate hygiene skills are followed before and after handling animals and equipment, to include
use and dispose of PPE.

86
 LDT 03 - Haematology Achieved Not
achieved

1. Personal protective equipment worn to prevent contamination of the nurse.

2. Appropriate blood sample selected.

3. Sample inverted gently to mix.

4. Blood smear of reasonable diagnostic quality produced.

5. Blood smear appraised accurately.

6. Blood smear stained and rinsed using the Diff-QuikTM stain provided and
left to dry. Stains not contaminated.

7. Blood smear labelled with patient information and date.

8. Laboratory form completed fully and accurately.

9. Sample packed to meet UN P650 packaging instructions.

10. Waste materials disposed of into appropriate waste receptacle.

11. Procedure performed without contamination of self or equipment.

87
RCVS Pre-Registration OSCE

OSCE Code LDT 04

A canine patient has been admitted to the surgery with intermittent urinary
incontinence. The veterinary surgeon intends to carry out a cystogram.

Prior to this procedure you have been asked to send a urine sample to an
external laboratory for a bacterial culture and sensitivity test.

a. Collect a urine sample using the urinary catheter already in place.

b. Using the information provided complete the laboratory form.

c. Package the sample to meet UN packaging instruction P650, ready for

dispatch to the external laboratory. This will be collected by courier.

Additional information

The patient has been anaesthetised and is being monitored.

Assume that your hands have been cleaned prior to starting the procedure.

Updated December 2023

Intellectual property rights of this OSCE checklist belong to RCVS. Please do not use without permission.

88
This OSCE station assesses the following RCVS Day One Skills for Veterinary Nurses

Section 1 - Legislation Affecting Practice

1.1 Comply with Health and Safety requirements and local risk factors.

1.2 Follow Standard Operating Procedures and manufacturer guidelines when using equipment and materials.

Section 2 – Communication

2.8 Complete appropriate paperwork for referral and diagnostic services, to include for laboratory samples.

Section 5 – Laboratory Techniques

5.1 Discuss with the veterinary surgeon and prepare for an appropriate sampling strategy to include;
PPE
Urine

5.2 Safely and effectively take appropriate samples, to include urine

5.8 Prepare samples for external analysis, to include;

Accurate completion of documentation
Correct packaging and labelling
Correct preservation
Correct storage

Section 8 – Infection Control

8.3 Dispose of hazardous and non-hazardous waste safely and correctly according to current legislation, to
include hazardous waste.

8.4 Ensure appropriate hygiene skills are followed before and after handling animals and equipment, to
include use and dispose of PPE.

89
 LDT 04 - Urine Sample Collection Achieved Not
achieved

1. Equipment for collection of urine sample selected and prepared.

2. Personal protective equipment worn to prevent contamination of nurse and

patient.
3. Patient and equipment protected from potential soiling.

4. 3 way tap and syringe used correctly to collect sample.

5. Sufficient uncontaminated sample collected and transferred to the correct

urine pot using a safe and aseptic technique.

6. Sample labelled with patient details and date.

7. Laboratory form completed fully and accurately.

8. Sample packed to meet UN P650 packaging instructions.

9. Waste materials disposed of into appropriate waste receptacle.

10. Procedure performed without contamination of self or equipment.

90
RCVS Pre-Registration OSCE

OSCE Code LDT 05

This patient has been admitted to the surgery with intermittent urinary
incontinence.

You have been asked to;

a. Collect a urine sample using the urinary catheter already in place.

b. Use the refractometer to obtain a urine specific gravity reading.

c. Use a urine reagent strip to obtain a reading.

d. Record your findings on the chart provided.

e. Correctly store the sample in case further analysis is required later in

the day.

Additional Information

The patient is sedated and restrained.

Assume that your hands have been cleaned prior to starting the procedure.

Assume that the urinary catheter has been cleaned prior to starting the
procedure.

Updated December 2023

Intellectual property rights of this OSCE checklist belong to RCVS. Please do not use without permission.

91
This OSCE station assesses the following RCVS Day One Skills for Veterinary Nurses

Section 1 - Legislation Affecting Practice

1.1 Comply with Health and Safety requirements and local risk factors.

1.2 Follow Standard Operating Procedures and manufacturer guidelines when using equipment and
materials.

Section 2 – Communication

2.2 Create accurate and legible written communications/documentation according to practice policy, to
include laboratory reports.

Section 5 – Laboratory Techniques

5.1 Discuss with the veterinary surgeon and prepare for an appropriate sampling strategy to include;
PPE.
Preparation of equipment.
Calibration of equipment.
Urine.

5.2 Safely and effectively take appropriate samples, to include urine.

5.4 Carry out urinalysis, to include urines reagent strips and specific gravity.

5.8 Prepare samples for external analysis, to include;

Correct preservation.
Correct storage.

5.9 Records laboratory test results and communicate accurately to the appropriate member of the
veterinary team, to include records laboratory test results.

Section 8 – Infection Control

8.3 Dispose of hazardous and non-hazardous waste safely and correctly according to current legislation,
to include hazardous waste.

8.4 Ensure appropriate hygiene skills are followed before and after handling animals and equipment, to
include use and dispose of PPE.

92
 LDT 05 - Urinalysis Achieved Not
achieved

1. Equipment for collection of urine sample selected and prepared.

2. Equipment for testing urine sample selected and prepared.

3. Personal protective equipment worn to prevent contamination of nurse and

patient.
4. Patient and equipment protected from potential soiling.

5. 3 way tap and syringe used correctly to collect sample.

6. Sufficient uncontaminated sample collected and transferred to the correct

urine pot using a safe and aseptic technique.
7. Sample labelled with patient details and date.

8. Sample inverted gently to mix.

9. Refractometer correctly calibrated.

10. Refractometer correctly used to determine the specific gravity.

11. Specific gravity recorded accurately.

12. Urine test strips used correctly to enable accurate results.

13. Urine test result recorded accurately.

14. Urine sample stored correctly.

15. Waste materials disposed of into appropriate waste receptacle.

16. Procedure performed without contamination of self and equipment.

93
RCVS Pre-Registration OSCE

OSCE Code LDT 06

You are nursing a patient with anaemia. The veterinary surgeon has asked
you to perform jugular blood sample collection and run a PCV.

a. Prepare yourself and assemble the equipment and to obtain a jugular

sample from the patient.

b. Obtain a jugular sample from the patient.

c. Using the centrifuge obtain and record the PCV for this patient.

Additional information

Assume that your hands may be contaminated prior to starting the

procedure.

The patient has previously had the hair clipped from the sample site.

Please tell the examiner which method you would like to use to read the PCV.
The following will be available
• Ruler and Calculator
• Micro Haematocrit Reader
• Card Reader

Updated December 2023

Intellectual property rights of this OSCE checklist belong to RCVS. Please do not use without permission.

94
This OSCE station assesses the following RCVS Day One Skills for Veterinary Nurses

Section 1 - Legislation Affecting Practice

1.1 Comply with Health and Safety requirements and local risk factors.

1.2 Follow Standard Operating Procedures and manufacturer guidelines when using equipment and materials.

Section 3 – Handling and Restraint

3.3 Demonstrate techniques for approaching and handling animals.

3.5 Use appropriate restraint methods suitable for the patient and situation with due consideration for animal
welfare, to include restrain for sample collection.

Section 5 – Laboratory Techniques

5.1 Discuss with the veterinary surgeon and prepare for an appropriate sampling strategy to include;
PPE.
Preparing sample site.
Blood.

5.2 Safely and effectively take appropriate samples, to include blood.

5.4 Carry out haematological analysis, to include packed cell volume.

5.8 Prepare samples for external analysis, to include;

Correct packaging and labelling.

5.9 Records laboratory test results and communicate accurately to the appropriate member of the veterinary team,
to include records laboratory test results.

Section 8 – Infection Control

8.3 Dispose of hazardous and non-hazardous waste safely and correctly according to current legislation, to include
hazardous waste.

8.4 Ensure appropriate hygiene skills are followed before and after handling animals and equipment, to include
comply with World Health Organisation hand washing method and use and dispose of PPE.

95
 LDT 06 PCV Achieved Not
achieved

1. Hand hygiene carried out using the WHO technique.

2. Equipment for collection of blood sample selected and prepared

aseptically.
3. Personal protective equipment worn to prevent contamination of nurse and
patient.
4. Assistant asked to restrain patient.

5. Skin cleaned over venepuncture site.

6. Vein raised and blood sample obtained using an aseptic technique.

7. Pressure applied over venepucture site.

8. Correctly filled blood tube with blood and lid secured.

9. Needle(s) not resheathed at any time or resheathed safely.

10. Sample inverted gently to mix.

11. Sampled labelled with patient details and date.

12. Two capillary tubes prepared.

13. Capillary tubes placed into centrifuge correctly.

14. Correctly set the centrifuge time and speed.

15. Centrifuge used safely.

16. PCV determined and recorded as a percentage on the patient record card.

17. Waste materials disposed of into appropriate waste receptacle.

18. Procedure performed without contamination of self or equipment.

96
RCVS Pre-Registration OSCE

OSCE Code LDT 07

You are required to prepare a skin scrape / hair pluck / coat brushing sample
from a patient and examine it under the microscope for evidence of parasites.

a. Transfer the collected material to the microscope slide, ready for

examination under the microscope.

b. Using the prepared slide provided by the examiner, set up the

microscope, locate and focus on the parasite.

c. Record the vernier scale reading to enable relocation of the parasite

if the slide is moved.

d. Identify and record the latin name of the parasite located.

Additional Information

Assume that your hands have been cleaned prior to starting the procedure.

Updated June 2023

Intellectual property rights of this OSCE checklist belong to RCVS. Please do not use without permission

97
This OSCE station assesses the following RCVS Day One Skills for Veterinary Nurses

Section 1 - Legislation Affecting Practice

1.1 Comply with Health and Safety requirements and local risk factors.

1.2 Follow Standard Operating Procedures and manufacturer guidelines when using equipment and materials.

Section 5 – Laboratory Techniques

5.1 Discuss with the veterinary surgeon and prepare for an appropriate sampling strategy to include;
PPE.
Preparation of equipment.
Skin/hair.

5.2 Safely and effectively take appropriate samples, to include skin, hair pluck.

5.6 Carry out skin and hair analysis, may include hair pluck, skin scrapes, coat brushings.

5.7 Use a microscope to examine laboratory samples, to include;

Low magnification.
High magnification.
Oil immersion.
Record vernier scale readings.
5.9 Records laboratory test results and communicate accurately to the appropriate member of the veterinary
team, to include records laboratory test results.

Section 8 – Infection Control

8.3 Dispose of hazardous and non-hazardous waste safely and correctly according to current legislation, to
include hazardous and non-hazardous waste.

8.4 Ensure appropriate hygiene skills are followed before and after handling animals and equipment, to
include use and dispose of PPE.

98
 LDT 07 - Skin Scrape / Hair Pluck Achieved Not
achieved

1. Personal protective equipment worn to protect the nurse from

contamination.
2. Selected all necessary equipment required to transfer the collected
material to the slide and prepared for use.
3. Slide of diagnostic quality prepared.

4. Microscope set up ready for use.

5. Correctly used the microscope to focus on a parasite.

6. Read and correctly recorded the vernier scale.

7. Recorded name of parasite.

8. Waste materials disposed of into appropriate waste receptacle.

9. Procedure performed without contamination of self or equipment.

99
RCVS Pre-Registration OSCE

OSCE Code LDT 08

You are nursing a patient with an infection. The veterinary surgeon has asked
you to produce a diagnostic blood smear and examine it.

a. Using the pre-cleaned microscope slides and spreader slides perform

the blood smear.

b. Comment on the quality of the smear you have prepared.

c. Stain the blood smear provided by the examiner using the Diff-QuikTM
solutions.

d. Using the slide provided by the examiner, examine the blood smear
provided using the oil immersion lens. The microscope will be already
set up ready for use.

e. Position the slide using the vernier scale reading given and identify the
white blood cell in the centre of the field of view. The microscope will be
already set up ready for use.

Additional information

Assume that your hands have been cleaned prior to starting the procedure.

Updated December 2023

Intellectual property rights of this OSCE checklist belong to RCVS. Please do not use without permission.

100
This OSCE station assesses the following RCVS Day One Skills for Veterinary Nurses

Section 1 - Legislation Affecting Practice

1.1 Comply with Health and Safety requirements and local risk factors.

1.2 Follow Standard Operating Procedures and manufacturer guidelines when using equipment and materials.

Section 5 – Laboratory Techniques

5.1 Discuss with the veterinary surgeon and prepare for an appropriate sampling strategy to include;
PPE.
Preparing of equipment.
Blood.

5.3 Carry out haematological analysis, to include blood smear.

5.7 Use a microscope to examine laboratory samples, to include;

Low magnification, high magnification, oil magnification, record vernier scale readings.

5.8 Prepare samples for external analysis to include correct packaging and labelling.

Section 8 – Infection Control

8.3 Dispose of hazardous and non-hazardous waste safely and correctly according to current legislation, to
include hazardous waste.

8.4 Ensure appropriate hygiene skills are followed before and after handling animals and equipment, to include
comply with World Health Organisation hand washing method and use and dispose of PPE.

101
 LDT 08 - Blood Smear Examination Achieved Not
achieved

1. Personal protective equipment worn to protect the nurse from

contamination.

2. Appropriate blood sample selected.

3. Sample inverted gently to mix.

4. Blood smear of reasonable diagnostic quality produced.

5. Blood smear labelled with patient information and date.

6. Blood smear appraised accurately.

7. Blood smear stained, rinsed using the Diff-QuikTM stain provided, and left
to dry.

8. Waste materials disposed of into appropriate waste receptacle.

9. Procedure performed without contamination of self or equipment.

10. Microscope set up correctly for examination of slide (oil immersion).

11. White blood cell located using the vernier scale reading provided.

12. Correctly named the white blood cell.

102
RCVS Pre-Registration OSCE

OSCE Code LDT 09

You are required examine a urine sample under a microscope to look for urine
crystals.

a. Prepare the sample for the patient named on the clinical record for
analysis under a microscope.

b. Examine the urine sample under the microscope, locate a crystal and
place it in the centre of the field of view. You are not required to
identify this crystal.

c. Write down the vernier scale reading to relocate the crystal if the slide
is moved.

d. Identify the urine crystal(s) shown in the photograph provided by the

examiner.

Additional information

Assume that your hands have been cleaned prior to starting the procedure.

The microscope slides have been pre-cleaned.

The photograph will be selected from a range of common crystals found in

small animal patients.

Please leave the slide on the microscope for the examiner to check.

Updated December 2023

Intellectual property rights of this OSCE checklist belong to RCVS. Please do not use without permission.

103
This OSCE station assesses the following RCVS Day One Skills for Veterinary Nurses

Section 1 - Legislation Affecting Practice

1.1 Comply with Health and Safety requirements and local risk factors.

1.2 Follow Standard Operating Procedures and manufacturer guidelines when using equipment and materials.

Section 5 – Laboratory Techniques

5.1 Discuss with the veterinary surgeon and prepare for an appropriate sampling strategy to include;
PPE.
Preparation of equipment.
Urine.

5.4 Carry out urinalysis, to include sediment analysis.

5.7 Use a microscope to examine laboratory samples, to include low magnification and record Vernier Scale
readings.

Section 8 – Infection Control

8.3 Dispose of hazardous and non-hazardous waste safely and correctly according to current legislation, to
include hazardous waste.

8.4 Ensure appropriate hygiene skills are followed before and after handling animals and equipment, to include
use and dispose of PPE.

104
 LDT 09 - Urine Crystals Achieved Not
achieved

1. Equipment for sample analysis selected and prepared.

2. Personal protective equipment worn to protect the nurse from

contamination.
3. Urine sample prepared for centrifuging to enable a diagnostic slide.

4. Centrifuge set up safely.

5. Correctly set the centrifuge time and speed.

6. Prepared the sample following centrifuging to enable a diagnostic slide.

7. Prepared the slide correctly for examination.

8. Examined the slide under the microscope.

9. Focused the microscope on a crystal.

10. Record the vernier scale.

11. Correctly identified the urine crystal in the image.

12. Waste materials disposed of into appropriate waste receptacle.

13. Procedure performed without contamination of self or equipment.

105
Supporting Veterinary Anaesthesia

The following OSCE stations could be used in your examination

SVA 01 Re-breathing anaesthetic system

SVA 02 Non-rebreathing system 1

SVA 03 Anaesthetic induction

SVA 04 Non-rebreathing system 2

Feedback from the examiners

Leak test the anaesthetic machine

Candidates are not familiar with appropriate techniques for leak testing the machine. This is not the
same as leak testing the breathing system

Endotracheal tube

Candidates are putting patients in danger by failing to check that the lumen of the ET tube is not
blocked.

Re-breathing anaesthetic system

When changing the soda lime candidates do not fill the canister sufficiently.

Oxygen Cylinders

In the examination we normally use the oxygen cylinders attached to the anaesthetic machine.
Candidates are advised to become familiar with this.

106
RCVS Pre-Registration OSCE

OSCE Code SVA 01

A patient has been admitted for a routine surgical procedure. The veterinary
surgeon has requested that you check and prepare the necessary equipment
for delivery of gaseous anaesthetic using a re-breathing anaesthetic
system.

a. Using the information provided in the patient record, select, prepare

and attach a suitable breathing anaesthetic system to the anaesthetic
machine and passive scavenging.

b. Tell the examiner the name of the anaesthetic breathing system you
have selected.

c. As this is the first anaesthetic of the day, you are required to perform
the checks needed to ensure the anaesthetic machine and anaesthetic
breathing system are ready for use. Explain to the examiner the
checks you are making.

d. Using the chart provided, select the appropriate oxygen maintenance

fresh gas flow rate for the patient and set this on the machine.

Additional information

Assume that your hands have been cleaned prior to starting the procedure.

Updated August 2022

Intellectual property rights of this OSCE checklist belong to RCVS. Please do not use without permission.

107
This OSCE station assesses the following RCVS Day One Skills for Veterinary Nurses

Section 1 - Legislation Affecting Practice

1.1 Comply with Health and Safety requirements and local risk factors.

1.2 Follow Standard Operating Procedures and manufacturer guidelines when using equipment and
materials.

Section 8 – Infection Control

8.4 Ensure appropriate hygiene skills are followed before and after handling animals and equipment, to
include use and dispose of PPE.

Section 10 – Anaesthesia

10.2 Prepare for anaesthesia to include;

Check and prepare the anaesthetic machine in accordance with practice protocol.
Select and prepare and check an appropriate breathing system/circuit and pollution control.

108
 SVA 01 - Re-breathing Anaesthetic System Achieved Not
achieved

1. Quantity of oxygen registered on the pressure dial checked.

2. Oxygen flowmeter and emergency oxygen flush checked to ensure it is

functioning.
3. Vaporiser percentage dial and level of the volatile anaesthetic agent in the
vaporiser checked and appropriate action taken.

4. Appropriate anaesthetic breathing system selected and attached correctly

to anaesthetic machine and scavenging.

5. Correctly named the anaesthetic breathing system.

6. Personal protective equipment worn while handling corrosive substance.

7. Soda lime changed safely.

8. Anaesthetic machine leak and breathing system leak test performed and
correctly interpreted.

9. APL valve checked to ensure it is functioning. APL valve left in correct

position.

10. Fresh gas flow set correctly.

109
RCVS Pre-Registration OSCE

OSCE Code SVA 02

A patient has been admitted for a dental procedure which will be carried out
under general anaesthesia. The veterinary surgeon has requested that you
check and prepare the necessary equipment for delivery of gaseous
anaesthetic using a non-rebreathing anaesthetic system.

a. Using the information provided in the patient record, select, prepare

and attach a suitable breathing anaesthetic system to the anaesthetic
machine and passive scavenging.

b. Tell the examiner the name of the anaesthetic breathing system you
have selected.

c. As this is the first anaesthetic of the day, you are required to perform
the checks needed to ensure the anaesthetic machine and anaesthetic
breathing system are ready for use. Explain to the examiner the
checks you are making.

d. Select up to three Endotracheal Tubes (ET) most appropriate for the

patient together with any equipment required for placement of the
endotracheal tube. Prepare one of the ET tubes for use.

e. Restrain/position the patient for the placement of the endotracheal tube

(The assistant/examiner will place the tube) and connect the patient to
the anaesthetic machine.

f. Using the information provided, set the oxygen flowmeter to show the
fresh gas flow setting for this patient.

Additional information

Assume that your hands have been cleaned prior to starting the procedure
For some patients more than one breathing system may be appropriate.

Updated April 2022

Intellectual property rights of this OSCE checklist belong to RCVS. Please do not use without permission.

110
This OSCE station assesses the following RCVS Day One Skills for Veterinary Nurses

Section 1 - Legislation Affecting Practice

1.1 Comply with Health and Safety requirements and local risk factors.

1.2 Follow Standard Operating Procedures and manufacturer guidelines when using equipment and materials.

Section 3 – Handling and Restraint

3.3 Demonstrate techniques for approaching and handling animals.

3.5 Use appropriate restraint methods suitable for the patient and situation with due consideration for animal
welfare to include restrain for introduction of an appropriate airway management device.

Section 10 – Anaesthesia

10.2 Prepare for anaesthesia to include;

Check and prepare the anaesthetic machine in accordance with practice protocol.
Select and prepare and check an appropriate breathing system/circuit and pollution control.
Prepare appropriate airway management device.

111
 SVA 02 - Non-rebreathing System 1 Achieved Not
achieved

1. Quantity of oxygen registered on the pressure dial checked.

2. Oxygen flowmeter and Emergency oxygen flush checked to ensure it is

functioning.

3. Vaporiser percentage dial and level of the volatile anaesthetic agent in the
vaporiser checked and appropriate action taken.

4. Appropriate anaesthetic breathing system selected and attached correctly

to machine and scavenging.

5. Correctly named the anaesthetic breathing system.

6. Anaesthetic machine leak and breathing system leak test performed and
correctly interpreted.

7. APL valve checked to ensure it is functioning. APL valve left in correct

position.

8. Endotracheal tube of an appropriate size for the patient selected and

checked it is ready to use.

9. Equipment associated for endotracheal tube placement selected and

ready for use.

10. Patient positioned and head supported for the placement of the
endotracheal tube.

11. Endotracheal tube secured.

12. Patient attached to breathing system and checks made to ensure the
endotracheal tube effectively seals the airway.

13. Fresh gas flow set correctly.

112
RCVS Pre-Registration OSCE

OSCE Code SVA 03

A patient has been admitted for a routine surgical procedure. The veterinary
surgeon has requested that you check and prepare the necessary equipment
for induction of anaesthesia and delivery of gaseous anaesthetic.

a. Using the information provided in the patient record, select, prepare

and attach a suitable breathing anaesthetic system to the anaesthetic
machine and passive scavenging.

b. Tell the examiner the name of the anaesthetic breathing system you
have selected.

c. As this is the first anaesthetic of the day, you are required to perform
the checks needed to ensure the anaesthetic machine and anaesthetic
breathing system are ready for use. Explain to the examiner the
checks you are making.

d. Using the Formulary or Compendium (book) provided, calculate and

draw up the anaesthetic induction agent required. Please note you are
required to draw up the exact quantity as calculated.

Show all your workings including units.

Additional information

Assume that your hands have been cleaned prior to starting the procedure
For some patients more than one breathing system may be appropriate.

The patient has been pre-medicated.

Updated April 2022

Intellectual property rights of this OSCE checklist belong to RCVS. Please do not use without permission.

113
This OSCE station assesses the following RCVS Day One Skills for Veterinary Nurses

Section 1 - Legislation Affecting Practice

1.1 Comply with Health and Safety requirements and local risk factors.

1.2 Follow Standard Operating Procedures and manufacturer guidelines when using equipment and materials.

Section 7 - Dispensing

7.2 Interpret prescriptions and prepare medicines for dispensing, to include calculate drug dosages and confirm
with an appropriately qualified member of the veterinary team.

Section 8 – Infection Control

8.4 Ensure appropriate hygiene skills are followed before and after handling animals and equipment, to include
use and dispose of PPE.

Section 10 – Anaesthesia

10.2 Prepare for anaesthesia to include;

Check and prepare the anaesthetic machine in accordance with practice protocol.
Select and prepare and check an appropriate breathing system/circuit and pollution control system in
accordance with practice protocol.
Prepare materials and equipment required for induction of anaesthesia to include pharmaceutical agents
(according to veterinary surgeon direction).

114
 SVA 03 - Anaesthetic Induction Achieved Not
achieved

1. Quantity of oxygen registered on the pressure dial checked.

2. Oxygen flowmeter and emergency oxygen flush checked to ensure it is

functioning.
3. Vaporiser percentage dial and level of the volatile anaesthetic agent in the
vaporiser checked and appropriate action taken.

4. Appropriate anaesthetic breathing system selected and attached correctly

to anaesthetic machine and scavenging.

5. Correctly named the anaesthetic breathing system.

6. Anaesthetic machine leak and breathing system leak test performed and
correctly interpreted.

7. APL valve checked to ensure it is functioning. APL valve left in correct

position.

8. Patient’s anaesthetic induction agent requirement correctly calculated.

9. Units included in final answer.

10. Personal protective equipment worn to prevent anaesthetic agent coming

into contact with nurse’s skin.

11. Prepared the intravenous anaesthetic agent using an aseptic technique

and left it ready for use.

115
RCVS Pre-Registration OSCE

OSCE Code SVA 04

A patient has been admitted for a routine surgical procedure. The veterinary
surgeon has requested that you check and prepare the necessary equipment for
delivery of gaseous anaesthetic using a non-rebreathing anaesthetic system.

a. Using the information provided in the patient record, select, prepare and
attach a suitable non-rebreathing anaesthetic system to the anaesthetic
machine and passive scavenging.

b. Tell the examiner the name of the anaesthetic non-rebreathing system

you have selected.

c. As this is the first anaesthetic of the day, you are required to perform the
checks needed to ensure the anaesthetic machine and anaesthetic non
re-breathing system are ready for use. Explain to the examiner the
checks you are making.

d. Select up to three Endotracheal Tubes (ET) most appropriate for the

patient together with any equipment required for placement of the
endotracheal tube. Prepare one of the ET tubes for use.

e. For this patient you are required to calculate

I. Tidal volume
II. Minute volume
III. Fresh gas flow per minute

f. Set the oxygen flowmeter to show the fresh gas flow setting for this
patient.

Additional information
Assume that your hands have been cleaned prior to starting the procedure For
some patients more than one non re-breathing system may be appropriate.

Updated December 2023

Intellectual property rights of this OSCE checklist belong to RCVS. Please do not use without permission.

116
This OSCE station assesses the following RCVS Day One Skills for Veterinary Nurses

Section 1 - Legislation Affecting Practice

1.1 Comply with Health and Safety requirements and local risk factors.

1.2 Follow Standard Operating Procedures and manufacturer guidelines when using equipment and materials.

Section 8 – Infection Control

8.4 Ensure appropriate hygiene skills are followed before and after handling animals and equipment, to include
use and dispose of PPE.

Section 10 – Anaesthesia

10.2 Prepare for anaesthesia to include;

Check and prepare the anaesthetic machine in accordance with practice protocol.
Select and prepare and check an appropriate breathing system/circuit and pollution control system in
accordance with practice protocol.
Prepare materials and equipment required for induction of anaesthesia to include pharmaceutical agents
(according to veterinary surgeon direction).

117
 SVA 04 Non-rebreathing System 2 Achieved Not
achieved

1. Quantity of oxygen registered on the pressure dial checked.

2. Oxygen flowmeter and emergency oxygen flush checked to ensure it is

functioning.
3. Vaporiser percentage dial and level of the volatile anaesthetic agent in the
vaporiser checked and appropriate action taken.

4. Appropriate anaesthetic breathing system selected and attached correctly

to anaesthetic machine and scavenging.

5. Correctly named the anaesthetic breathing system.

6. Anaesthetic machine leak and breathing system leak test performed and
correctly interpreted.
7. APL valve checked to ensure it is functioning. APL valve left in correct
position.
8. Endotracheal tube(s) of an appropriate size for the patient selected and
one prepared ready to use.
9. Equipment associated for endotracheal tube placement selected and
ready for use.

10. Patient’s tidal volume, minute volume and fresh gas flow correctly
calculated.
11. Units included in final answer.

12. Fresh gas flow set correctly.

118
Veterinary Diagnostic Imaging

The following OSCE stations could be used in your examination

VDI 01 This station has been removed from the bank

VDI 02 Patient positioning (digital)

Possible views include:

Abdomen (Lateral) Pelvis (Lateral) Lumbar spine (Lateral)

Abdomen (Ventrodorsal) Pelvis (Ventrodorsal) Tibia and fibula (Lateral)
Abdomen (Dorsoventral) Stifle (Craniocaudal) Cervical spine (Lateral)
Thorax (Ventrodorsal) Stifle (Lateral) Thoracic spine (Lateral)
Thorax (Dorsoventral) Tarsus (Lateral) Thoracic spine (Dorsoventral)
Thorax (Lateral) Carpus (Lateral) Thoracic spine (Ventrodorsal)
Shoulder (Lateral) Carpus (Dorsopalmer)
Shoulder (Caudocranial) Elbow (Lateral)

Patients may include

• Dog
• Cat
• Rabbit

Feedback from the examiners

General poor technique with positioning the patient and collimating the primary beam.

119
RCVS Pre-Registration OSCE

OSCE Code VDI 02

The veterinary surgeon has asked you to take a radiograph of this patient.

a. Using the digital X-ray machine and the patient record, input the
following details into the system;

• Patient details
• Owner details
• Radiographic View

b. Using the radiographic equipment provided, set up and position the

patient for the required view detailed on the patient record.

c. Tell the examiner the anatomical landmarks you used to collimate and
centre the primary beam.

d. Take the exposure.

Additional information

The patient has been anaesthetised and is being monitored.

The Bucky Tray is already loaded with the cassette/grid.

You are not expected to set exposure factors or change the focal film
distance.

Assume that your hands have been cleaned prior to starting the procedure.

Updated December 2023

Intellectual property rights of this OSCE checklist belong to RCVS. Please do not use without permission.

120
This OSCE station assesses the following RCVS Day One Skills for Veterinary Nurses

Section 1 - Legislation Affecting Practice

1.1 Comply with Health and Safety requirements and local risk factors.

1.2 Follow Standard Operating Procedures and manufacturer guidelines when using equipment and materials.

Section 6 – Diagnostic Imaging

6.1 Prepare and use radiography equipment to produce a diagnostic image, to include prepare radiography
equipment and use radiography equipment.

6.2 Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and radiation monitoring equipment in accordance
with practice local rules, to include PPE, radiation monitoring equipment.

6.3 Position a patient to obtain a diagnostic image of the area of interest, to include Lateral Lumbar Spine

6.4 Produce images according to practice procedure.

121
 VDI 02 - Patient Positioning (digital) Achieved Not
achieved

1. Patient and owner details put into digital x-ray machine.

2. Species / size of patient selected.

3. Correct view selected.

4. Patient placed in suitable position with area of interest closest/positioned

on the table.
5. Correct use of positioning aids (if necessary ties, sandbags, trough and
foam wedges).

6. Correctly positioned patient for view required.

7. Left/right marker correctly placed.

8. Centered primary beam correctly.

9. Collimated primary beam correctly.

10. Correctly clarified which anatomical landmarks were used to help centre
the primary beam.

11. Correctly clarified which anatomical landmarks were used to help collimate
the primary beam.

12. Radiograph of diagnostic quality feasibly produced.

13. Exited controlled zone and made exposure.

122
Veterinary Theatre Practice

The following OSCE stations could be used in your examination

VTP 01 Surgical preparation

VTP 02 Instrument preparation

VTP 03 Initial patient skin preparation

VTP 04 Final patient skin preparation and drape

VTP 05 Sterilisation of equipment

VTP 06 Initial patient skin preparation and instrument selection

Feedback from the examiners

Gowning

Candidates are advised to become familiar with donning disposable surgical gowns

Draping trolley

Poor technique, which would potentially lead to break in asepsis

123
RCVS Pre-Registration OSCE

OSCE Code VTP 01

Prior to assisting with an exploratory surgical procedure, you have been

requested to;

a. Put on a surgical cap and mask.

b. Prepare yourself to assist with the procedure by surgically disinfecting

your hands and arms using the Sterillium provided.

c. Put on the disposable sterile gown.

d. Put on the sterile gloves using the closed method.

Additional Information

Assume that you have already washed your hands at the start of the day and
cleaned under your fingernails.

Please note you are not required to cover your feet with protective shoe
covers.

Updated August 2022

Intellectual property rights of this OSCE checklist belong to RCVS. Please do not use without permission.

124
This OSCE station assesses the following RCVS Day One Skills for Veterinary Nurses

Section 1 - Legislation Affecting Practice

1.1 Comply with Health and Safety requirements and local risk factors.

1.2 Follow Standard Operating Procedures and manufacturer guidelines when using equipment and materials.

Section 9 – Theatre Practice

9.7 Prepare hands and arms using appropriate method, to include pre-surgical scrub prior to donning gown and
gloves.

9.8 Prepare for surgical assistance wearing appropriate attire in accordance with practice protocol, to include
down gown in an aseptic manner and don gloves (closed gloving method) in an aseptic manner to assist with
surgery.

125
 VTP 01 - Surgical Preparation Achieved Not
achieved

1. Presented with short well-manicured fingernails, free from polish/varnish

(no false nails), no visible jewellery worn, arms bare below the elbow.

2. Surgical cap donned correctly.

3. Surgical mask donned and secured correctly.

4. Sterillium timer started.

5. Applied sufficient Sterillium to cover hands and forearms.

6. Rub the Sterillium in portions into hands and forearms without re-
contaminating any portion for the minimum time period.

7. Hands rubbed until dry.

8. Asked assistant to open gown and gloves. Candidate placed these on

sterile surface.
9. Gown put on using an aseptic technique.

10. Instructed the assistant to fasten the neck and back velcro/ties.

11. Sterile gloves put on aseptically using the closed method.

12. Tied the waist ties using an aseptic technique.

13. After completing gloving and gowning, hands clasped together above
waist.

14. Maintained sterility of gloves and self during procedure.

126
RCVS Pre-Registration OSCE

OSCE Code VTP 02

Prior to a surgical procedure, you have been requested to;

a. Prepare yourself to assist with the procedure by surgically disinfecting

your hands and arms using the Sterillium provided.

b. Put on the sterile gloves using the open method.

c. Drape the surgical instrument trolley with the sterile drape.

d. Select and place the 10 required items listed on the Standard

Operating Procedure (SOP) onto the sterile field. Place the items from
left to right the in the order they appear on the SOP.

Additional information

Assume that you have already washed your hands at the start of the day and
cleaned under your fingernails.

Updated April 2022

Intellectual property rights of this OSCE checklist belong to RCVS. Please do not use without permission.

127
This OSCE station assesses the following RCVS Day One Skills for Veterinary Nurses

Section 1 - Legislation Affecting Practice

1.1 Comply with Health and Safety requirements and local risk factors.

1.2 Follow Standard Operating Procedures and manufacturer guidelines when using equipment and materials.

Section 9 – Theatre Practice

9.1 Maintain common surgical instruments to include, identify common surgical instruments.

9.7 Prepare hands and arms using appropriate method, to include pre-surgical scrub prior to donning gown and
gloves.

9.8 Prepare for surgical assistance wearing appropriate attire in accordance with practice protocol, to include
down gown in an aseptic manner and don gloves (open gloving method) in an aseptic manner to assist with
surgery.

9.12 Handle and pass instruments and equipment aseptically during surgery.

128
 VTP 02 - Instrument Preparation Achieved Not
achieved

1. Presented with short well-manicured fingernails, free from polish/varnish

(no false nails), no visible jewellery worn, arms bare below the elbow.

2. Sterillium timer started.

3. Applied sufficient Sterillium to cover hands and forearms.

4. Rub the Sterillium in portions into hands and forearms without re-
contaminating any portion for the minimum time period.

5. Hands rubbed until dry.

6. Asked assistant to open gloves. Candidate placed these on sterile

surface.

7. Sterile gloves put on aseptically using the open method.

8. Trolley draped in an aseptic manner.

9. Eight of the ten named items placed on the trolley in the order listed.

10. Maintained sterility of gloves, drape, items and self during procedure.

129
RCVS Pre-Registration OSCE

OSCE Code VTP 03

This patient has been anaesthetised and clipped in preparation for the
veterinary surgeon to perform a surgical procedure.

You are required to;

a) Prepare the operating theatre table for this patient.

b) Prepare the surgical light.

c) Demonstrate suitable hand hygiene.

d) Perform the initial skin preparation of patient.

e) Transfer the patient to the theatre table and position for final skin
preparation (you are not expected to perform the final skin preparation).

Additional Information

Assume that your hands may be contaminated.

The patient is anesthetised and being monitored.

Updated April 2022

Intellectual property rights of this OSCE checklist belong to RCVS. Please do not use without permission.

130
This OSCE station assesses the following RCVS Day One Skills for Veterinary Nurses

Section 1 - Legislation Affecting Practice

1.1 Comply with Health and Safety requirements and local risk factors.

1.2 Follow Standard Operating Procedures and manufacturer guidelines when using equipment and materials.

Section 8 – Infection Control

8.3 Dispose of hazardous and non-hazardous waste safely and correctly according to current legislation, to include
dispose of non-hazardous waste.

8.4 Ensure appropriate hygiene skills are followed before and after handling animals and equipment to include,
comply with the World Health Organisation hand washing method and use and dispose of PPE.

Section 9 – Theatre Practice

9.3 Prepare the theatre for use based on equipment and procedure.

9.4 Position patients appropriately on the operating table in accordance with the planned procedure considering
patient condition.

9.5 Prepare the surgical site appropriately for the procedure in accordance with practice protocol.

131
 VTP 03 - Initial Patient Skin Preparation Achieved Not
achieved

1. Presented with short well-manicured fingernails, free from polish/varnish

(no false nails), no visible jewellery worn, arms bare below the elbow.

2. No visible jewellery worn (ears, face, neck, wrists and hands).

3. Prepared the operating table with all the necessary equipment for the
patient.

4. Prepared surgical light correctly.

5. Prepared a solution of antimicrobial skin cleanser at the dilution rate

provided.

6. Carried out hand hygiene using the gel provided (Who method).

7. Personal protective equipment worn to prevent contamination of nurse and

patient.

8. Performed effective initial skin preparation using a recognised technique.

9. Transferred patient to theatre following initial skin preparation ensuring no

contamination of site.

10. Patient correctly positioned for the procedure.

11. Waste materials disposed of into appropriate waste receptacle.

132
RCVS Pre-Registration OSCE

OSCE Code VTP 04

Prior to the surgical procedure, you have been requested to perform the final
skin preparation and drape the patient using the four quadrant technique;

a. Put on the sterile gloves using the open method.

b. Perform the final skin preparation on the patient using ChloraPrep™.

c. Drape the patient for surgery using the four quadrant technique.

Additional information

Assume that you have already prepared your hands with Sterillium.

Updated April 2022

Intellectual property rights of this OSCE checklist belong to RCVS. Please do not use without permission.

133
This OSCE station assesses the following RCVS Day One Skills for Veterinary Nurses

Section 1 - Legislation Affecting Practice

1.1 Comply with Health and Safety requirements and local risk factors.

1.2 Follow Standard Operating Procedures and manufacturer guidelines when using equipment and
materials.

Section 9 – Theatre Practice

9.5 Prepare the surgical site appropriately for the procedure in accordance with practice protocol.

9.8 Prepare for surgical assistance wearing appropriate attire in accordance with practice protocol, to
include down gown in an aseptic manner and don gloves (open gloving method) in an aseptic manner to
assist with surgery.

9.9 Assist with sterile procedures to include maintain sterility of self and others during procedures.

9.11 Assist with draping patient maintaining sterility according to practice protocol.

134
 VTP 04 - Final Patient Skin Preparation and Drape Achieved Not
achieved

1. Presented with short well-manicured fingernails, free from polish/varnish

(no false nails), no visible jewellery worn, arms bare below the elbow.

2. Asked assistant to open gloves. Candidate placed these on sterile surface.

3. Sterile gloves put on aseptically using the open method.

4. Chloraprep applicator opened in a sterile manner.

5. Chloraprep applied effectively to surgical site.

6. Patient draped using a recognised aseptic technique.

7. Maintained sterility of gloves, drapes, towel clips and self during

procedure.

135
RCVS Pre-Registration OSCE

OSCE Code VTP 05

Prior to a surgical procedure, you have been requested to;

a. Pack and label the drape provided.

b. Pack and label the instrument indicated.

c. Prepare and load the autoclave ready for use (explain to the examiner
what you are doing).

Additional information

You are not expected to start the autoclave cycle.

Updated August 2021

Intellectual property rights of this OSCE checklist belong to RCVS. Please do not use without permission.

136
This OSCE station assesses the following RCVS Day One Skills for Veterinary Nurses

Section 1 - Legislation Affecting Practice

1.1 Comply with Health and Safety requirements and local risk factors.

1.2 Follow Standard Operating Procedures and manufacturer guidelines when using equipment and
materials.

Section 9 – Theatre Practice

9.2 Prepare package and monitor the sterilisation of instruments and materials to include;
Prepare instruments for sterilisation.
Prepare materials for sterilisation.
Package instruments for sterilisation.
Package materials for sterilisation.
Monitor sterilisation of instruments and materials.

137
 VTP 05 - Sterilisation of Equipment Achieved Not
achieved

1. Folded drape using a recognised method.

2. Packed the drape for autoclaving using an effective technique.

3. Selected the instrument to be autoclaved.

4. Packed the instrument for autoclaving using an effective technique.

5. Labelled the autoclave packages correctly.

6. Prepare the autoclave for use.

7. Loaded autoclave correctly.

8. Secured autoclave door and selected appropriate cycle.

138
RCVS Pre-Registration OSCE

OSCE Code VTP 06

Prior to a surgical procedure, you have been requested to prepare the patient
and select surgical instruments. Your patient has been anaesthetised and
clipped in preparation for the veterinary surgeon to perform a routine surgical
procedure.

You are required to;

a. Position the patient to enable you to perform the initial skin preparation.

b. Perform the initial skin preparation.

c. Assume you are wearing surgical gloves. Select and place the 10
required items listed on the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) onto
the sterile field. Place the items from left to right the in the order they
appear on the SOP.

Additional Information

The incision site is marked on the image of the patient provided.

Assume that your hands may be contaminated, for part b.

Assume you are wearing surgical gloves for part c.

The patient is anesthetised and being monitored.

Updated April 2022

Intellectual property rights of this OSCE checklist belong to RCVS. Please do not use without permission.

139
This OSCE station assesses the following RCVS Day One Skills for Veterinary Nurses

Section 1 - Legislation Affecting Practice

1.1 Comply with Health and Safety requirements and local risk factors.

1.2 Follow Standard Operating Procedures and manufacturer guidelines when using equipment and materials.

Section 8 – Infection Control

8.3 Dispose of hazardous and non-hazardous waste safely and correctly according to current legislation, to
include non-hazardous waste.

8.4 Ensure appropriate hygiene skills are followed before and after handling animals and equipment, to
include comply with the World Health Organisation hand washing method and use and dispose of PPE.

Section 9 – Theatre Practice

9.1 Maintain common surgical instruments, to include identify common surgical instruments.

9.4 Position patients appropriately on the operating table in accordance with the planned procedure.

9.5 Prepare the surgical site appropriately for the procedure in accordance with practice protocol.

140
 VTP 06 - Initial Patient Skin Preparation and Instrument Selection Achieved Not
achieved

1. Presented with short well-manicured fingernails, free from polish/varnish

(no false nails), no visible jewellery worn, arms bare below the elbow.

2. Positioned patient in suitable recumbency for the skin preparation to be

performed.

3. Prepared a solution of antimicrobial skin cleanser at the dilution rate

provided.

4. Carried out hand hygiene using the gel provided (WHO method).

5. Personal protective equipment worn to prevent contamination of nurse and

patient.

6. Performed effective initial skin preparation using a recognised technique.

7. Waste materials disposed of into appropriate waste receptacle.

8. Eight of the ten named items placed on the trolley in the order listed.

141