ABSTRACT
The people we see the most, even more than our clients and possibly our family members, are the people we work with – our work family. This chapter examines the unique environment that is the veterinary workplace, and encourages readers to contemplate the stresses, demands, and responsibilities of positions other than the one they hold, including receptionist, veterinary technician/nurse, veterinary assistant, office manager, associate doctor, and practice owner/chief of staff. It is important for staff to work together as a team and to help make others aware of any connections to clients and patients to increase the understanding of client and patient narratives.
When a well-known patient arrives for euthanasia, the entire staff may be affected. This is explored in detail in this chapter through a fictional Case Story. Employing some narrative medicine strategies in the workplace can help to increase staff wellness and decrease burnout and compassion fatigue.
