Scandinavian nurse anaesthetists’ perspectives on their role after completing a post-registration program in paediatric anaesthesia: a qualitative study

Background Paediatric anaesthesia requires specialised competence to address the unique physiological, psychological, and developmental needs of children. The Nordic post-registration program in paediatric anaesthesia was established to support the development of such competence among nurse anaesthetists. Methods A descriptive qualitative study was conducted using individual semi-structured interviews with 18 nurse anaesthetists from Sweden, Denmark and Norway who had completed the Nordic post-registration program in paediatric anaesthesia. Data were analysed inductively using Braun and Clarke’s reflexive thematic analysis. Results Three themes were identified: (1) Developing a new professional identity (2) Making a real difference for children , and (3) Internalizing knowledge and expertise – working intuitively . Participants described a process of professional transformation in which specialised paediatric competence became integrated into their professional identity. Expertise was characterised by growing confidence, enhanced non-technical skills, and the ability to make intuitive and context-sensitive clinical judgements. Conclusion The Nordic post-registration program in paediatric anaesthesia appears to accelerate the development of specialised paediatric anaesthesia competence and a distinct professional identity. Competence extended beyond technical skills and involved the internalisation of knowledge and expertise that supported intuitive practice, professional legitimacy, and child-centred care within paediatric anaesthesia teams. These competencies may be important for maintaining patient safety in complex paediatric anaesthesia practice.