Heather Stephenson Email and Phone Number

I have been employed on a fixed term contract as an MRI Technician in recent months. My main role includes acquiring images to a high diagnostic standard. I have also continued to build on my clinical nursing skills such as; placing intravenous catheters, monitoring sedated patients and administering sedation throughout the MRI procedure (under supervision from qualified members of the team).

During the past two breeding seasons I have worked as a foal sitter, working nights and weekends alongside my full-time job. My role includes handling, monitoring and recording observations of intensive care cases, primarily sick foals.

I am fortunate to have had the opportunity to assist a team of specialised clinicians, working primarily with cases in orthopaedics and poor performance, oncology and ophthalmology. In addition, I have gained valuable experience acquiring radiographs, magnetic resonance images (MRI) and nuclear scintigrams of excellent diagnostic quality. I have also contributed to several research projects and now have a good appreciation of the dedication and skill required to publish good quality science. Over the past year I have contributed to weekly journal clubs and book clubs which has added to my understanding and interests.In May 2020 I enrolled on a Level 3 Diploma in Veterinary Nursing (Equine Pathway) with support from The Animal Health Trust and started my journey as a Student Veterinary Nurse.

As a small animal auxiliary nurse, I assisted the veterinarian in all aspects of the clinical work; consultations (handling patients, client communication), surgical procedures (surgical preparation, monitoring anaesthesia) and imaging (handling patients). I was responsible for processing blood and urine samples and monitoring hospitalised patients. Our patients included some exotic species. My job also included reception and administration duties, including processing insurance claims.

As a result of my dedication to work part time surrounding my final year studies, I was fortunate to then be offered a full-time position at a Thoroughbred stud. The role included exceptional daily care for all of the horses housed at the stud, assisting with coverings, foaling and foal nursing overnight. Working as part of a large team, I also handled and prepared yearlings for sales.