Beating burnout in vet nurses and techs: Causes, prevention strategies, and a new survey tool
Tracks
Stream Three - Plaza P3 & P4
| Thursday, March 26, 2026 |
| 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM |
| Plaza P3 & P4 |
Overview
Angela Chapman
Speaker
Angela Chapman
Melbourne Polytechnic/La Trobe University
Beating burnout in vet nurses and techs: Causes, prevention strategies, and a new survey tool
Abstract
Burnout is a widespread issue in the veterinary nursing profession, leading to feelings of exhaustion, imposter syndrome, and rising rates of staff turnover. This presentation will delve into the complex nature of burnout, examining why it affects some people more than others, and identifying key causes that are specific to vet nurses and techs. We will also explore why addressing burnout within the workplace, rather than as an individual, is so important.
So, how can we prevent burnout in ourselves and our teams and create a more sustainable profession?
Embracing the conference themes of empowerment and change, we will introduce a newly developed survey designed to help veterinary clinics identify existing risk factors for burnout within their vet nursing teams. This innovative tool can help you and your clinic to tailor interventions and strategies to address identified burnout risks and enhance overall well-being. Join me in learning how we can lead the way in forging a strong and empowered future for our profession.
So, how can we prevent burnout in ourselves and our teams and create a more sustainable profession?
Embracing the conference themes of empowerment and change, we will introduce a newly developed survey designed to help veterinary clinics identify existing risk factors for burnout within their vet nursing teams. This innovative tool can help you and your clinic to tailor interventions and strategies to address identified burnout risks and enhance overall well-being. Join me in learning how we can lead the way in forging a strong and empowered future for our profession.
Biography
Angela is originally from the UK and qualified as a Registered Veterinary Nurse in 2003. She spent seven years working in a large 24-hour clinic just North of London and completed her RCVS Diploma in Advanced Veterinary Nursing before moving to Australia in 2010. Since then, she has worked in a number of ECC clinics around Australia including five years as Head Nurse of ECC at the University of Melbourne during which time she completed her VTS (ECC). After 16 years of clinical veterinary nursing, her passion for education finally won out and she joined the teaching team for the Bachelor of Veterinary Nursing – a La Trobe University degree delivered in partnership with Melbourne Polytechnic. Alongside her teaching, Angela had the opportunity to develop her passion for management through completing a Masters in Management in 2019. Angela is a passionate advocate of promoting advancement and support for veterinary nurses, and is currently completing a PhD exploring organisational factors and intervention strategies to address burnout in veterinary nurses.
