Scrub Nurse

Job Title: Scrub Nurse
Band: Band 5–6
Reports to: Theatre Coordinator / Clinical Lead / Team Leader
Location: Operating Theatres / Surgical Units

SJK Healthcare Recruitment are hiring Scrub Nurses for our client to work in the NHS hospitals of Manchester

Job Purpose

To provide high-quality, specialised perioperative care to patients undergoing surgical procedures. The Scrub Nurse plays a vital role in preparing the operating theatre, assisting the surgical team during procedures, and ensuring patient safety and comfort throughout the surgical journey.

Key Responsibilities

Pre-Operative Duties:

• Ensure the operating theatre is sterile and fully prepared.
• Sterilise and arrange surgical instruments, gloves, gowns, and equipment.
• Perform initial counts of sponges, instruments, and needles.
• Liaise with other nursing teams and surgical staff.

Intra-Operative Duties:

• Assist the surgeon by passing instruments and maintaining a sterile field.
• Monitor patient condition and anticipate surgical team needs.
• Maintain accurate documentation during procedures.
• Act as circulating nurse when required.

Post-Operative Duties:

• Assist with dressings and wound care.
• Prepare the patient for transfer to recovery.
• Support anaesthetic and recovery staff as needed.
• Ensure all equipment is cleaned and maintained.

Leadership & Teamwork:

• Supervise and mentor junior staff and students.
• Lead the scrub team and deputise for the Team Leader when required.
• Participate in audits and contribute to continuous improvement.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to ensure optimal patient outcomes.

Skills & Experience Required

Essential:

• Registered Nurse (Adult) with NMC registration or Operating Department Practitioner (ODP).
• Minimum of 1–3 years post-registration experience in a theatre setting.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and in emergency situations.
• Basic IT skills and documentation standards.

Desirable:

• Specialist knowledge in surgical areas (e.g., orthopaedics, ENT, plastics).
• Leadership or mentoring experience.
• Evidence of continuing professional development.
• Experience in change management and service improvement.

Working Conditions

• Fast-paced, high-pressure environment.
• Exposure to surgical procedures and bodily fluids.
• Shift work including nights, weekends, and on-call duties.
• Requires physical stamina and emotional resilience.
• Must comply with infection control and health & safety policies.

What we offer
Competitive rates of pay
Weekly pay
Flexible shift pattern Full time, Part-time & Ad Hoc
Working across leading NHS sites in Greater Manchester Area
Ongoing Support from our recruitment team

Plus a referral programme