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Nikki is based at the Foots Cray hospital and shares responsibility for the smooth running of our theatres and kennels. She also provides nurse clinics weekly at our Belvedere branch and looks after the traning and development needs of the nursing team.
Biography
As a young 15 year old, Nikki undertook a two week work experience placement at Parkvets. She thoroughly enjoyed her time and learnt a lot, confirming suspicions that she wanted to become a veterinary nurse. She was so keen in fact, that she kept volunteering to come back to help out during the school holidays!
When offered the opportunity of an interview for a student nurse position she grabbed this chance with both hands, secured the job and started her career as a student nurse in October 2000.
Says Nikki, "I gained some valuable experiences before I was packed off to Myerscough college in Preston where it snowed in the summer. It was here I passed all of my nursing exams with credits and qualified in 2005."
Since qualifying Nikki has attended many courses to help expand her knowledge. "I have trained to become a Hills Nutrition Advisor, Pet Diabetes Advisor, Human First Aider (not that I like human blood) and an A1 Assessor - now a Clinical Coach."
Says Nikki, "training nurses is the area of my job I enjoy the most, and is now my main responsibility at Parkvets. Watching students progress from day one where normally they are nervous wrecks to becoming confident in all aspects of nursing really makes my job feel worthwhile!
Nikki also has a very keen interest in radiography, anaesthesia and emergency/critical care. "I attended an Emergency Nursing course in 2010 at the RVC which really opened my eyes even further to the care that can be given to patients during emergency situations."
At home Nikki has one cat, Fraggle, who we know from experience doesn't lack personality! "She was a stray and after owning her for 3 years, I understand why she lacked a good home - she is a tad mental, but very loveable!"
