This innovative role is designed to enable multidisciplinary staff to contribute to the care of the orthopaedic / trauma surgical patient. Following an initial training period, to complete a SFA course, the post holder will join a team of surgical first assistants working across the trust. The post holder will provide competent and dedicated surgical assistance to the operating surgeon, undertaking practical procedures, within scope of practice, as part of the surgical team under the direction and supervision of the operating surgeon. As part of the wider surgical team, the post holder will also liaise and work with the MDT to ensure smooth running of the patient pathway.

Main duties of the job

Provide skilled dedicated surgical assistance to the operating surgeon.

Perform practical procedures within scope of practice.

Be responsible for clinical risk and ensure staff are proactive in managing risk.

Support learning opportunities for trainee surgeons.

Create and deliver teaching and training to support staff, student development and CPD.

About us

If you are being interviewed you must accept an interview slot in the system to continue, even if you have arranged with the manager

You must be able to produce ALL certificates stated essential in the person specification or you will not be able to complete pre-employment checks

We provide hospital services from two acute sites - Darlington Memorial Hospital and University Hospital of North Durham. We have a centre for planned care in Bishop Auckland and provide care from community hospitals in Chester-le-Street, Shotley Bridge, Barnard Castle, Sedgefield and Weardale as well as over 80 other community based settings and providing care in patients' homes.

We particularly welcome applications from disabled and Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) candidates as BAME and disabled people are currently under-represented

We are unable to offer sponsorship for roles that do not require a professional registration, to apply you must have Right to Work in the United Kingdom. If you are in the UK on a VISA please ensure you have no restrictions that would prevent you from taking this post

Full Job Descriptions can be found in the adverts supporting documents

Job description

Job responsibilities

Maintaining a safe perioperative environment.

Reconfirmation of consent for surgery.

Work within the HCPC, NMC code of conduct and follow trust policies and procedures.

Develop the role of surgical first assistant to maximize delivery of holistic patient centered care.

Practice effectively and competently (within scope of practice) in the role of SFA whilst performing: -

Patient positioning including tissue viability assessment.

Skin preparation and draping prior to surgery.

Handling of tissue and manipulation of organs for exposure or access.

Nerve and deep tissue retraction.

Cutting of deep sutures and ligatures.

Assisting with haemostasis in order to secure and maintain a clear operating field, including the use of diathermy.

Wound washing out and suction.

Camera manipulation for minimal access and arthroscopic surgery.

Administration of local anaesthetic.

Closure of surgical wounds using sutures, clips and glue.

Application of dressing, splints, slings and POP.

Perform practical procedures as delegated and suitably supervised by the operating surgeon.

(This list is not intended to be an exhaustive portfolio of practice)

Maintain and update personal clinical skills and knowledge in areas of research, education, practice and current professional development.

Proactively contribute to clinical governance, research and audit activities.

Participate in the planning, implementation and review of structured education programs for medical and non-medical staff and students.

Teach and provide information to patients, staff, students and relatives as appropriate.

Provide clinical expertise and advice to other staff both within and out of the operating theatre department.

Person Specification

Experience

Essential

• Relevant experience.
• Experience of working within orthopaedics and trauma.
• A clear track record of changing practice to improve patient care.
• Evidence of continued CPD.

Qualifications

Essential

• Registered ODP/ Nurse
• Evidence of recent post registration study

Desirable

• Level 6 Surgical First Assistant / Advanced Scrub practitioner Qualification.
• Key instruction in surgical skills (KISS) course.

Statutory Registration

Essential

• HCPC
• NMC

Special Skills & Knowledge

Essential

• Excellent communication skills.
• Proven skills in teaching.
• Experience of multi-disciplinary working.
• Evidence of recent research / audit.
• Aptitude for clinical and operative practice

Desirable

• Teaching Qualification

Special Requirements

Essential

• Ability to travel across trust sites

Employer details

Employer name

County Durham & Darlington NHS Foundation Trust

Address

University Hospital Of North Durham

North Road

Durham

DH1 5TW

Any attachments will be accessible after you click to apply.

C9439-23-0775