Four nurses have completed a course giving them specialised training in anaesthesia at King Edward VII Memorial Hospital.

They have taken advantage of a new scheme aiming to provide nurses with skills not taught in other countries including the US.

The eight-week programme included modules on preparing patients for anaesthesia, maintenance and monitoring, emergencies in anaesthesia and recovery care.

It means they will be able to assist anaesthesiologists during surgery.

All new nurses will be required to take the training course on joining the hospital's surgical team.

Course instructor Cil-maria Outerbridge said: "This programme was designed to provide specialised instruction to operating room nurses who will now have the skills to assist our anaesthesiologists.

"Bermuda Hospitals Board is committed to providing continuing education for staff members. This programme offers consistent training and prepares members of the nursing surgical team to fulfil the role of an anaesthetic nurse."

Marvil Morris, operating room nurse and course graduate, said: "I was pleased for the opportunity to broaden my skill set. The training increased my proficiency in the operating room."