The spectrum of care in veterinary medicine is a structured framework offering a range of acceptable, evidence-based diagnostic and treatment options tailored to the circumstances of the patient, client, and veterinary team. It functions as a continuum of care, ensuring that treatments are both clinically appropriate and accessible to clients. “Spectrum of Care in Veterinary Medicine and the Role of the Veterinary Nurse” by Julie Ann Nettifee, RVT, MS, VTS (Neurology), covers how the entire veterinary team can be included in discussing the pros and cons of different treatment options and placing those options in the context of the client’s ability to obtain care. Thus, more patients receive treatment, clients are empowered to participate in their beloved pet’s care, and trust between the client and veterinary team is strengthened. This sounds like a win-win-win and supports the reason many of us became veterinary professionals.
What We’re Reading
A member of our Editorial Advisory Board shares a recent open-access publication, including their key takeaways and its practical conclusion.
Underuse of Hands-Free Radiology in Small Animal Veterinary Medicine Increases Radiation Exposure Risks for the Veterinary Professional
McCarty TY. JAVMA. 2025;263(S2):S65-S69. doi:10.2460/javma.25.04.0227
What Was Investigated? This article outlines the inherent dangers of ionizing radiation. Hands-free radiology techniques allow veterinary care team members distance from the source of radiation, decreasing the absorbed dose exponentially.
What Was Discussed?
- The dangers of ionizing radiation are described as an increased risk of cancer, cardiovascular disease, cataracts, reproductive sterility, and birth defects.
- Veterinary team members are reported to experience a significant decrease in absorbed radiation if they achieve 6 feet of distance from the radiation source.
- Reasons for resistance to implementing hands-free radiology include concerns for workflow issues, cost to the client, and/or resistance to patient sedation.
Take-Home Points:
- Ionizing radiation exposure has negative health impacts with no minimum dose.
- Distance from the radiologic source decreases exposure.
- Hands-free radiology techniques are available with training and supplies.
- Veterinary team members should be educated on radiation exposure and advocate for safe practices.
— Ashley Byrne, LVT, CVT
More From the NAVC
Apply for the Dr. Earl H. Rippie Veterinary Nurse/Technician Leadership Scholarship
The Dr. Earl H. Rippie Veterinary Nurse/Technician Leadership Scholarship honors the memory of a leader in the veterinary profession who recognized that veterinary nurses/technicians are the spoke in the wheel of the practice and the heart of the hospital. Accordingly, this scholarship recognizes veterinary nurses/technicians who have demonstrated leadership abilities and have made a positive impact on the growth of the profession or in their practice. Winners receive complimentary registration, travel, and accommodation to VMX 2027; an awards presentation; and more.