Staff nurse/theatre practitioner

March 24, 2026
Application ends: April 16, 2026
Apply Now

Job Description

Are you an experienced Scrub Practitioner ready to take the next step in a fast-paced, high-acuity environment? Join University Hospitals Dorset (UHD) and become part of a dynamic theatre team delivering exceptional care across emergency and vascular surgery.

This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to a 24/7 multi-speciality theatre service, where your expertise will directly impact patient outcomes and support ongoing service transformation.

About the Role

As a key member of our Operating Theatres team, you will provide expert scrub support across a range of emergency and complex surgical procedures. You’ll work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team to ensure safe, efficient, and patient-centred care at all times.

Key Responsibilities

  • Deliver high-quality scrub support across emergency and vascular surgical procedures
  • Assist across multiple surgical specialities within a busy theatre environment
  • Work as part of a 24-hour, 7-day service, including nights, weekends, and bank holidays
  • Collaborate closely with surgeons, anaesthetists, nurses, and theatre teams
  • Maintain high standards of patient safety, infection control, and clinical excellence
  • Adapt quickly in a high-pressure, fast-moving environment

Who We’re Looking For

We’re seeking a motivated and skilled professional who thrives in a challenging clinical setting and values teamwork and continuous improvement.

Essential Criteria

  • Registered Nurse (RN) or Operating Department Practitioner (ODP)
  • Proven scrub experience within acute or emergency surgical settings
  • Ability to work effectively under pressure
  • Strong communication and teamwork skills
  • Commitment to delivering safe, patient-focused care

Location & Working Pattern

  • Base Site: Royal Bournemouth Hospital (UHD)
  • Participation in a full rota, including night shifts, weekends, and bank holidays

Service Development & Future Opportunities

UHD is actively investing in its services as part of the New Hospital Programme, driving innovation and improving surgical care delivery.

  • Planned service reconfiguration from July 2026
  • Elective procedures will move to a single site
  • Emergency, paediatrics, and major surgeries will be based at Royal Bournemouth Hospital

Please note: If services relocate, travel to the new base will be considered a standard commute in line with Trust policies.

Inclusive Workplace & Employee Support

At UHD, we are proud to foster a diverse and inclusive workplace. We actively support staff through networks including:

  • Women’s Network
  • BAME Network
  • Pride Network
  • EU Staff Network
  • Pro Ability Network
  • Armed Forces Community

We are committed to Disability Confident and Armed Forces Covenant interview schemes, ensuring equal opportunities for all candidates.

Recruitment & Application Guidance

We welcome the use of AI tools to support applications; however, all submissions must accurately reflect your own experience, skills, and qualifications. Integrity is central to our recruitment process.

Interview Details

  • Interview Date: 16 April 2026

Apply Now – Advance Your Theatre Career

Join a forward-thinking NHS Trust where your skills will be valued, your growth supported, and your work will make a real difference. This is your opportunity to be part of a team shaping the future of emergency and vascular surgical care in Dorset.

Contact for Informal Enquiries

  • Name: Russell Way
  • Job Title: Senior Clinical Lead
  • Email: russell.way@nhs.net
  • Phone: 0300 019 4183