Feedback is a word that is tossed around a lot. But what does it mean? When I think about feedback at its most basic, I think of it as a reaction or response to something. This reaction can be communicated verbally or non-verbally, orally or written. Feedback is applied to everyday situations. We are so used to giving and receiving feedback in different ways throughout our daily lives that often it just becomes background noise. However, feedback can and should be impactful when it is delivered constructively and received openly. Feedback in veterinary practice is essential between all team members. It is especially valuable when feedback is shared between veterinarians and the nursing team. This presentation will explore the purpose of feedback in veterinary practice as well as how to improve the way in which we as veterinarians can offer feedback to the nursing team. The phrasing of feedback and the intent behind it matters and influences the way in which it is received.

Learning Objectives:

• Define feedback.
• Recognize that veterinary practice relies upon feedback for team members to achieve their potential.
• Identify at least three content areas in which feedback between veterinarians and the nursing team is appropriate.
• Explore possible reactions of the nursing team to feedback.
• Recognize that feedback is circular and most effective as a dialogue in which speaker and receiver exchange roles to check for understanding and to clarify what has been shared.
• Identify at least five ways that veterinarians can provide more effective feedback to the nursing team.

This program has been approved for 1 hour of continuing education credit in jurisdictions that recognize RACE approval. 

Recording from 23 May 2023