Unsafe practice

Observing Unsafe Practice in an MMI

In the case of observing an unsafe practice, such as wrong restraining, hurried medication preparation, or poor communication in a heated situation, the interviewer wants to see that you are able to demonstrate calm and proportionate decision-making. It is imperative that you show that you see the risk and respect your role’s boundaries.

Key Principles

• Recognise the situations when an animal, a staff member, or a client may be at risk and demonstrate that you can promptly detect the unsafe behaviour.
• If there is a risk of immediate danger, you can confront it politely.
• Use respectful tones.
• Be aware of what you can and cannot do as a student or an observer and hence operate within those limits.

Why These Matter

The interviewer expects you not to turn a blind eye to risky situations, but also not to take steps that could increase the danger. The practice of veterinary medicine depends on being alert, taking responsibility, and the able to raise your voice safely. In an interview, this will show the interviewer that you are familiar with the realities of professional practice and, therefore, can be given trust in clinical settings.