This unit facilitates an understanding of working practise and the essential operation of a veterinary practice so that an employee may work effectively and safely within such an environment.

This unit provides the student veterinary nurse with an appropriate theoretical knowledge of the normal structure and function of the major body systems of a range of species. The student should also develop the practical skills to identify visually, or by palpation, the key anatomical features and landmarks required in day to day nursing practice.

The unit provides initial insight into how normal physiological function can be disrupted and how this relates to disease processes. The student will learn how such physiological changes may modify requirements for nursing care.

This unit facilitates an understanding of the dynamics of communication within a veterinary setting, including interprofessional relationships and relationships with veterinary clients. 

This unit facilitates an understanding of principles of animal welfare and husbandry in relation to work in a veterinary practice.

This unit facilitates an understanding of the essentials of control of infection in clinical veterinary practice.

This unit facilitates an understanding of the essentials of nursing sick animals within a veterinary environment.