The role of the nurse: extended or expanded?

The subject of role extension has been much debated, particularly in recent years as a result of changing healthcare policies, growing demands by nurses and the public, and arguments about the very nature of nursing itself. The recent media furore over the theatre sister who performed an appendectomy is but one example. This article will take account of recent trends and look at the different concepts of role extension and role expansion. How nursing can best adapt these roles to meet patients' needs will also be considered.