The most senior nurses and midwives in 355 National Health Service (NHS) Trusts in the United Kingdom were surveyed to establish what computer networks were in use by nurses, and what clinical systems and network services were available on these networks, and what training and policies on networks were in place. Qualitative data were also collected; the nurses were asked to comment on network access and possible uses of these networks. This paper concentrates on the qualitative data. The results of the study are being used to influence policy and disseminate information in an action research programme.