Title Protection, Definitions

Per The Missouri Veterinary Practice Act 340.200 (17)(21), any individual who is not a registered veterinary technician or licensed veterinarian in the state of MO is legally considered an "unregistered assistant". Furthermore, the title "nurse" is a legally protected title by the Missouri Board of Nursing (RSMo 335.076 (5)). Referring to non-credentialed staff as "technicians", "nurses", or any variation thereof is not compliant with either the Missouri Veterinary or Nursing Practice acts. Therefore, the Missouri Veterinary Technicians Association discourages employers and staff to refer to employees as "nurses" or "technicians" without holding the proper licenses.

Missouri Veterinary Practice Act

Full text: https://www.sos.mo.gov/cmsimages/adrules/csr/current/20csr/20c2270-1.pdf

340.200. Definitions.

When used in sections 340.200 to 340.330, the following terms mean:

(17) "Registered veterinary technician", a person who is formally trained for the specific purpose of assisting a licensed veterinarian with technical services under the appropriate level of supervision as is consistent with the particular delegated animal health care task;

(21) "Unregistered assistant", any individual who is not a registered veterinary technician or licensed veterinarian and is employed by a licensed veterinarian;

Missouri Nursing Practice Act

Full Text: https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=335.076

335.076. Titles, R.N., L.P.N., and APRN, who may use

5. In the interest of public safety and consumer awareness, it is unlawful for any person to use the title "nurse" in reference to himself or herself in any capacity, except individuals who are or have been licensed as a registered nurse, licensed practical nurse, or advanced practice registered nurse under this chapter.