After gaining experience in general practice in Yorkshire and Australia, Kate Campbell was ready to take the next step in emergency and critical care.

In this blog Kate shares:

  • How Vets Now’s Cutting Edge programme helped her build confidence in sole-charge ECC
  • The practical skills she developed, including diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) management
  • The value of hands-on training and ongoing mentorship
  • The flexibility of night shifts and how it benefits her work-life balance
  • Why she would recommend the programme to any vet looking to expand their emergency skillset.

 

 

1. What were you doing before joining CE?

After finishing Vet school I worked at a small animal practice in Yorkshire where the practice did their own after hours. I then moved to Australia where I worked until I joined Vets Now on my return to the UK.

What prompted you to apply at that point in your career?

When coming back to the UK I was looking for an opportunity to expand my emergency medicine skills and saw Cutting Edge advertised. It seemed like the perfect opportunity to start a career in emergency practice. Even though I had done some ECC work already, it was daunting to think of doing sole charge work and so I thought it would be an excellent opportunity to develop my skills and do further learning.

2. Why CE?

Why did you choose CE specifically?

I had met vets who previously had completed the Cutting Edge programme and spoke very highly of it. I liked that it covered a whole range of topics but also had a strong practical element to it including a two day wet lab surgical training practical and a full day of ultrasound training.

What stood out compared to other options?

Cutting Edge provided several weeks of solid training and continued support. It was more practical than some of the other options I found that were online. I also liked the idea of learning alongside other vets who were in a similar situation. I was not at the stage where I felt I wanted to start a certificate, but I wanted to do further learning and so this felt like the perfect fit.

 

3. The support

What kinds of support did you receive during your time on CE?

So much support- the cutting edge team are truly amazing. They helped me during my in-clinic blocks when I had questions and my principal vet was always keen to help with any support I needed. I also met a lovely group of vets in a similar situation, and I know I can call them up for help if needed on a shift anytime! The other thing that has been beneficial is that we receive support after the course in the form of monthly meet-ups online.

Tell us about a case that would have felt overwhelming earlier in your career, but that you now felt confident managing because of CE.

I recently had a diabetic ketoacidosis case. Thanks to Cutting Edge I felt so much more confident calculating all the CRIs etc that were required. I knew exactly what I should be monitoring and could use the benefits of blood gas analysis to my advantage. The other thing that I feel much more comfortable with is emergency surgery because the training during the Cutting Edge course was beneficial for this. Overall, I feel more equipped in how I manage cases from triage, stabilisation and communication with the team and pet-owners.

 

4. Where you are now

What are you doing now? I’m currently working in the Sheffield clinic. I can really see my improvement post my Cutting Edge training and I feel more confident. I feel like I’m able to provide a higher level of treatment for animals and therefore really make a true difference to my patients. At Sheffield, we work alongside the PDSA which I really enjoy. I am keen to continue my career in emergency practice and am always looking for opportunities to continue my learning.

How have you shaped your personal life in a way that supports your shift pattern and helps you thrive

Although the shifts are longer, I find that it gives me more flexibility to do my hobbies such as hikes in the Peak District or spend time with my cheeky rescue cat (see photo). You do get used to working nights and I have always been a night owl so they really suit me!

 

5. Looking back

Who would you recommend CE to, and why?

When I initially applied, I wasn’t sure if Cutting Edge would be beneficial as I had already been in practice for several years, but I was definitely proven wrong! I would recommend Cutting Edge to anybody who is looking for an opportunity to learn and expand their emergency skills further. You receive such valuable training and information from vets who are in practice. It really prepares you for night shifts. Starting emergency shifts can be daunting but this provides you with more confidence to take the leap and start emergency medicine. I feel it is perfect for people who are new to emergency work or those who wish to expand their skill base further. Couldn’t recommend it more!

For more information on our Cutting Edge programme or to apply visit https://www.vets-now.com/careers/edge/cutting-edge/