In this exploratory study, the role of the registered nurse when caring for patients on special observation was investigated. Semistructured interviews were conducted with 10 randomly selected registered nurses from 4 acute psychiatric wards. The 9 themes that emerged were: safety, therapeutic relationships, supporting patients & carers, consequences of special observation for nurses, continuity of care concerns, peer support, suicide indicators, responsibilities & rights of patients & nurses, & nurses, doctors & the hospital hierarchy. Recommendations for the allevation of concerns about the practice of special observation are outlined & discussed. (19 refs.)