§ Mr. Gordon PrenticeTo ask the Secretary of State for Health if the consent of patients is required before non-medically qualified persons are admitted to an operating theatre. [26973]
§ Mr. HoramIf a patient has consented to a treatment, such as an operation, this will include the involvement of all staff, medically qualified or not, who are required to ensure that the operation is performed safely and effectively. The admission of observers not connected with treatment should be permitted only if the professional in charge of the patient's care believes that it will not be detrimental to the patient and the patient has not objected.
§ Mr. PrenticeTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what restrictions govern the entry into operating theatres by non-medically qualified people. [26974]
§ Mr. HoramEntry to an operating theatre of non-medically qualified people is permitted if those people are necessary to the safe and effective running of the theatre, the theatre equipment, or are necessary to the delivery of patient care. The admission of observers not connected with treatment should be permitted only if the professional involved in the patient's care believes that it will not be detrimental to the patient and any patient concerned has not objected.