Minor surgery: an extended role for ophthalmic nurses in the United Kingdom

This article discusses the reasons for extending the scope of ophthalmic nursing practice in the Princess Alexandra Eye Pavilion, Edinburgh, Scotland, particularly with regard to the ophthalmic nurses' role and management of meibomian cysts (chalazions) through minor surgery to the eyelid. The article describes how the in-service teaching program was established in the hospital for those ophthalmic nurses who were interested in developing their knowledge and practical surgical nursing skills to undertake the management of meibomian cysts. The appropriate legal and ethical aspects of patient care involved in extending the scope of practice in the United Kingdom are discussed, including accountability and duty of care.