The aim o f this study was to determine the key factors within the roles and functions of professional nurses working in different nursing units with the purpose for motivation for their compensation in accordance with their performance. A comparative, descriptive design was employed. Findings reveal that the professional nurse’s roles and functions in the different units show that there are some significant differences regarding certain activities while differences pertaining to other activities were not significant. However, there were factors which were subjected to a number o f limitations during the study. Apart from the significant differences, it thus appears as if the roles and functions required o f professional nurses working in the three disciplines do not vary much in content and intensity. From the findings o f this study, it therefore, does not appear as if paediatric professional nurses have a valid reason for expecting additional monetary rewards in view o f their roles and functions. / Health Studies / M.A. (Health Studies)