Senior Theatre Practitioner – Anaesthetic & Recovery

We are seeking an experienced and motivated Senior Theatre Practitionerto join our high-performing perioperative team specialising in anaesthetics with rotational responsibilities in recovery.

This is an excellent opportunity for a skilled Operating Department Practitioner (ODP) or Registered Nurse (NMC/HCPC registered)who is ready to take the next step in their career. You will play a key role in delivering safe high-quality patient care while supporting the leadership and development of the anaesthetic and recovery service.

As a senior practitioner you will act as a clinical role model supporting the coordination of theatre activities and deputising for senior team members when required; contributing to service development education and clinical governance.

Key Responsibilities

Clinical Leadership & Patient Care

• Deliver expert perioperative care across anaesthetics and recovery with rotational or service-led allocation.

• Act as a clinical lead for anaesthetics/recovery on a shift basis supporting safe and effective list management.

• Assist with anaesthetic procedures including airway management patient monitoring and emergency situations.

• Provide high-quality post-anaesthetic care including patient assessment monitoring and safe discharge in line with agreed criteria.

• Take responsibility for the assessment planning delivery and evaluation of patient care across the perioperative pathway.

• Anticipate and respond to changing clinical priorities ensuring patient safety at all times.

Team Leadership & Management

• Support the day-to-day coordination of theatre activity ensuring efficient patient flow and utilisation.

• Deputise for the Lead/Deputy Theatre Practitioner as required.

• Provide visible leadership particularly in high-pressure situations.

• Supervise support and mentor junior staff students and non-registered team members.

• Contribute to staff induction preceptorship and ongoing development.

• Promote a positive team culture addressing challenges constructively and professionally.

Clinical Governance & Quality

• Maintain high standards of care in line with national and local guidance including:

  • NICE guidance

  • NatSSIPs / LocSSIPs

  • NCEPOD recommendations

  • Royal College standards

• Actively participate in audit quality improvement and service development initiatives.

• Ensure all incidents risks and near misses are reported and managed appropriately.

• Contribute to the development and review of policies procedures and standard operating practices.

• Promote a culture of continuous improvement and patient safety.

Communication & Collaboration

• Work collaboratively with the multi-disciplinary team to ensure smooth running of operating lists.

• Communicate effectively with patients relatives and colleagues maintaining professionalism at all times.

• Support coordination between departments to optimise the patient journey.

Education & Professional Development

• Act as a mentor/practice assessor (or work towards this qualification).

• Support teaching supervision and competency development within the team.

• Maintain and develop specialist knowledge in anaesthetics and recovery.

• Engage in continuous professional development and reflective practice.

Operational & Resource Management

• Ensure safe and effective use of equipment and resources.

• Support stock control procurement processes and equipment maintenance.

• Contribute to efficient theatre utilisation through accurate documentation and resource management.

• Participate in the on-call rota and demonstrate flexibility to meet service needs.

Person Specification

Essential

• Registered Practitioner with NMC or HCPC registration (ODP or Nurse)

• Minimum 5 years post-qualification experience in an operating theatre setting

• Experience in both anaesthetics and recovery

• Demonstrable experience in anaesthetics with a primary focus in this area and regular participation in recovery to maintain skills and support service demands

• Strong clinical reasoning skills across a varied patient caseload

• Proven ability to support and supervise a team in a clinical environment

• Excellent communication and organisational skills

• Competent IT skills including the use of Microsoft Office applications (e.g. Word Excel) and electronic patient record systems.

• Evidence of continuous professional development

• ILS certification

• ALS certification (or willingness to work towards)

• Commitment to high standards of patient care and safety

Desirable

• Mentorship or Practice Assessor qualification

• Postgraduate qualification or relevant specialist training (e.g. sedation)

• Experience in audit service improvement or change management

• Leadership development or supervisory experience