Introduction.

In this article the results of a study that aimed to identify the nursing involvement in the development of anesthesiology in Costa Rica are presented.

Method.

Historical research methodology is applied to determine the events related to the development of anesthesia as well as the contributions of nursing. The primary and secondary sources were systematized, evaluated, ordered and synthesized. The technique of focal group and interviews in depth with 23 nurses anesthesia technicians that currently working and pensioners was applied.

Result.

During more than 90 years staff of the discipline conducted the administration of anesthesia to people and training in anesthesia nursing was suspended in 1981.

Conclusion.

The study found that the staff had formal training given by Dr. Sotela which was later extended to one and a half by the School of Medicine of the University of Costa Rica, an institution that were teaching as technicians in anesthesia.