Setting boundaries

Setting Limits in a Veterinary Setting

Setting limits in a veterinary setting is a crucial skill. In an MMI they may test you on this to gauge your understanding of professionalism. Setting boundaries reflects how you can practise safely and maintain your own wellbeing at the same time. How you handle setting boundaries reflects your maturity.

Why Is Setting Boundaries Important

• Reduces burnout: Veterinary work is emotionally demanding.
• Guarantees that vets work safely and within their competence.
• Keeps up professional relationships.
• Lowers the possibilities of stress, reducing the risk of errors.
• Maintains public confidence.

Common Boundary Issues

• Vets being contacted after hours.
• Pressure to carry out tasks that are not within their expertise.
• Distressed owners making demands.
• Coworkers offloading stress using improper methods.
• Being required to put in excessive overtime.
• Handling harassment.

How Vets Should Set Boundaries

1. Be clear and professional.

2. Remain within your competence.

3. Keep a distance.

4. Say no when necessary.

How Boundary Setting May Be Tested — Examples

• A client keeps messaging you on social media to ask for advice.
• An owner in distress expects emotional support outside of work.
• A client acts aggressively.