HC Deb 23 March 1995 vol 257 c355W
Mr. Spearing

To ask the Secretary of State for Health what were the circumstances in which a person with no formal medical qualifications was asked to assist in a hip replacement operation at Newham general hospital; who was the employee; and what was his or her contract of employment. [15837]

Mr. Sackville

This is a matter for Newham Healthcare national health service trust. The hon. Member may wish to contact the chairman, Mrs. Rosemary Walters, for details.

Mr. Spearing

To ask the Secretary of State for Health what grades of personnel, other than qualified medical practitioners and nurses are, under health service regulations, permitted to participate in surgical operations; and what records are kept of such occasions. [15836]

Mr. Sackville

The law does not specify who may participate in an operation. Theatre nurses, operating department assistants and operating department orderlies working under the direct supervision of medical staff may assist in some operations where needed, within the limits of their competence.