Abstract

This article reports on the views of theatre nurses on the role of the nurse anaesthetist, which has received recent attention in the context of changing nursing and medical roles. 168 nurses working in 5 major operating departments were asked by way of questionnaire, for their views on nurse anaesthetists. 103 responses were received with 57 (55.3%) in favour of the development and 46 (44.7%) against. F and G grade nurses were found to be more favourable about nurse anaesthetists than their junior colleagues. In view of these findings, further investigation and discussion, notably with the medical profession and clinical managers, is recommended. The author believes that this proposed development must be given due thought and serious consideration before any attempts to introduce it are made.