Introduction: Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese treatment. It is difficult to know what role the nurse performs during acupuncture in Sweden since no guidelines exist. Indications that patients appreciate receiving acupuncture justifies investigating nurses’ work in China. Good practice may be uncovered that could provide the basis for understanding, defining and promoting the nurses’ role in acupuncture in other countries.

Aim: The aim of this study was to describe the nurses’ conception of their role in acupuncture therapy in an acupuncture clinic in Chengdu, China.

Method: A descriptive qualitative study. Data collection by methodological triangulation from observations and interviews.

Result: Results show that the role of the nurse is to perform practical procedures, support patients and have responsibility for hygiene.

Conclusion: Nurses have an important role in acupuncture therapy to carry out treatment as well as caring for the patients and treating them as individuals.