Changing faces within the perioperative workforce: New,advanced and extended roles

Abstract

The operating department like many other areas within healthcare is diversifying its workforce. Several new, advanced and extended roles have been integrated within the team. This article briefly outlines historical and current developments which have influenced the operating department workforce. It focuses on the following: Surgical Care Practitioner, Physician Associate, Anaesthesia Associates formerly known as Physician Assistant in Anaesthesia, Surgical First Assistant, Assistant Theatre Practitioner and Nursing Associates, highlighting the professional regulators, education and training, qualification and continuing professional development requirements.

Keywords

Surgical Care Practitioner / Surgical First Assistant / Physician’s Assistant (Anaesthetics) / Nursing Associate / Physician Associate / Assistant Theatre Practitioner / Perioperative workforce / New roles

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