Development of the nursing profession in western countries over time has led to the development of advanced nursing practice and nursing specialties requiring specific, specialized formal education or training. Thus, in some countries specialist nursing education in the field of anesthesia has also been developed. Depending on the country, the study is set at a certain level of, most commonly high education, and upon completion of their studies nurses acquire specific competencies that allow them a certain degree of autonomy in practice, in accordance with the legislation within the country. In countries where it exists, education is generally set at a post bachelor's level and requires certain professional experience. During their studies, nurses acquire specific knowledge and develop the skills needed to successfully and safely perform anesthesia. In their practice, they perform anesthesia under the supervision of a physician - anesthesiologist and according to his or her instructions. Specialist nurses are therefore not a substitute for physicians, although they independently carry out the necessary procedures under supervision. In such an organization, an anesthesiologist can supervise several nurses and patients at the same time, while maintaining the necessary quality and safety of practice. This type of education exists in several European countries and countries in the world. Among neighboring countries, Serbia has recently taken a step forward and started this type of education. The introduction of the Bologna Process has made a significant progress in harmonizing nursing education within the European Union (EU), yet common areas of specific competences in nursing within the EU, or beyond, have not yet been prescribed. Given the current shortage of anesthesiologist specialist doctors in Croatia, it might be possible to consider introducing this type of specialized nursing education in our country.