The Scrub Theatre Nurse plays a vital role in ensuring the smooth operation of surgical procedures. This position involves assisting surgeons, anaesthetists, and other healthcare professionals in the operating theatre. Responsibilities include preparing the theatre, ensuring all instruments and equipment are ready, assisting during surgeries, and caring for patients pre- and post-operatively. The role demands attention to detail, adaptability in high-pressure situations, and the ability to work as part of a multidisciplinary team.
Job Description
Reports To: Theatre Manager
Responsibilities
Surgical Preparation and Assistance:
- Prepare operating rooms and ensure all necessary equipment and instruments are sterile and in place.
- Scrub and assist the surgeon during surgical procedures, ensuring the efficient handling of instruments.
- Collaborate with the anaesthetist during the administration of anaesthesia.
- Assist in positioning the patient and ensuring comfort and safety during procedures.
- Monitor sterile fields to prevent contamination and ensure compliance with infection control standards.
Patient Care:
- Prepare patients for surgery, including explaining procedures and easing any anxiety.
- Provide post-operative care, following surgeon, anaesthetist, and duty doctor instructions.
- Monitor patient recovery, including observing and recording vital signs like pulse, blood pressure, and temperature.
- Administer prescribed medications, treatments, and wound care.
Additional Duties:
- Write and implement patient care plans tailored to individual needs.
- Set up and monitor drips, blood transfusions, and other interventions.
- Assist in conducting tests, evaluations, and routine investigations.
- Respond promptly and effectively to medical emergencies.
- Facilitate discharge planning and liaise with GPs and social workers as necessary.
- Educate patients about their health and post-operative care.
Operational and Administrative Responsibilities:
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date patient records, ensuring confidentiality and ethical decision-making.
- Restock rooms, trolleys, and record usage of consumable items.
- Hand over instructions regarding patient treatment to incoming nurses.
- Organise workloads, prioritise tasks, and manage time effectively in a fast-paced environment.
- Mentor and support student and junior nurses.
Communication and Collaboration:
- Communicate effectively with patients, families, and colleagues, alleviating anxiety and providing reassurance.
- Act as a liaison between different healthcare professionals to ensure continuity of care.
Requirements
Education
- Registered Nurse qualification (Diploma/Degree in Nursing)
- Valid nursing registration with the Maltese Council of Nurses & Midwives
- Certification in perioperative/theatre nursing (preferred)
- Basic Life Support (BLS); Advanced Life Support (ALS) desirable
Skills
- Expert knowledge of surgical instruments, procedures, and sterile techniques
- Strong infection prevention and control practices
- Ability to work effectively under pressure in a fast-paced theatre environment
- Excellent patient assessment and monitoring skills
- Proficient in medication administration and wound care
- Clear communication and teamwork within multidisciplinary teams
- Strong organisational, time-management, and prioritisation abilities
- Attention to detail and commitment to patient safety and confidentiality
Professional Development:
The Scrub Theatre Nurse is committed to continuous professional development to maintain high standards of clinical practice. This includes participating in ongoing training, attending workshops and in-service education related to perioperative care, infection control, and patient safety, and keeping up to date with advances in surgical techniques and equipment. The nurse also supports learning within the team by mentoring student and junior nurses and contributing to a culture of reflective practice and quality improvement.
Impact on the Organization:
The Scrub Theatre Nurse contributes significantly to the efficiency, safety, and quality of surgical services within the organisation. By ensuring theatres are well prepared, maintaining sterile environments, and supporting surgeons and anaesthetists during procedures, the nurse helps reduce surgical risks and improve patient outcomes. Effective communication, accurate documentation, and coordinated patient care enhance continuity of care, support organisational standards, and promote patient satisfaction and trust in the healthcare service.
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