Abstract:

In the early 1990s cardiothoracic theatre nurses in Oxford formally began to harvest saphenous veins for coronary artery bypass grafting. Since then, the role known as surgical care practitioners (SCPs) at the time of writing has expanded across the country to perform minor and even intermediate operations such as hernia repairs and carpal tunnel decompressions. Significant controversy exists as SCPs fulfil an ever expanding remit including possible detriment for junior surgeons' training and SCPs' necessity for service provision9 as well as issues of accountability and cost effectiveness. Possible negative effects on general nursing are also noted as experienced nurses are enticed away from existing roles. It seems ward nursing is no longer perceived as a valid ambition in itself.

Document Type:

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1308/147363506X101913

Publication date: 2012-05-01

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