The perceived function of health care assistants in intensive care: nurses views

The purpose of this study was to discover nurses' views on the function of Health Care Assistants (HCA) in Intensive Care (ICU). A questionnaire that utilised open-ended questions was distributed to all registered nurses working on the researchers ICU. Questions were based on issues including; general views on the utilisation of HCA, the transfer of aspects of nursing workload, education and training. A response rate of 96% was achieved. The results indicated strong support for the introduction of HCA on the researchers ICU but conflicting opinion in regards to the function they should serve. In light of the results, this study seeks to open the debate concerning HCA' suitability for employment in the researchers ICU. Recommendations are also made for practice and further research.