Bank Theatre Practitioner- Anaesthetics & Recovery

Purpose of Role

The Bank Theatre Practitioner – Anaesthetics & Recovery will provide high-quality, patient-centred perioperative care, with a primary focus on anaesthetics and occasional responsibility within recovery, as required by the clinic.

The post-holder will work as part of the theatre team to support the safe, effective and efficient running of theatre lists, contributing to a positive patient experience throughout the perioperative pathway.

The role requires accountability in line with the NMC/HCPC Code of Conduct, a commitment to clinical governance, and participation in education, audit and service improvement activities.

Key Responsibilities

Clinical Leadership & Patient Care

• Deliver safe, effective perioperative care across anaesthetics and recovery, with rotational or service-led allocation.
• Assist with anaesthetic procedures, including airway management, patient monitoring, and emergency situations, under appropriate supervision.
• Provide high-quality post-anaesthetic care, including patient assessment, monitoring, and discharge in line with agreed criteria.
• Participate in the assessment, planning, delivery, and evaluation of patient care across the perioperative pathway.
• Recognise and respond appropriately to changes in patient condition, escalating concerns as required.

Team Working & Support

• Work collaboratively with the theatre team to ensure safe and efficient patient flow.
• Support senior staff in the coordination of theatre activity.
• Contribute to a positive and supportive team environment.
• Support and assist junior staff, students, and new team members as appropriate.
• Participate in induction and ongoing team development activities.

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

• Participate in audit, quality improvement, and service development initiatives.

• Report incidents, risks, and near misses in line with organisational policy.

• Adhere to policies, procedures, and standard operating practices.

• Contribute to maintaining a safe clinical environment.

Communication & Collaboration

• Work effectively with the multi-disciplinary team to support the smooth running of operating lists.

• Communicate clearly and professionally with patients, relatives, and colleagues.

• Support coordination between departments to ensure a positive patient experience.

Education & Professional Development

• Participate in teaching, supervision, and competency development as appropriate.

• Maintain and develop knowledge in anaesthetics and recovery practice.

• Engage in continuous professional development and reflective practice.

• Work towards relevant competencies and role development opportunities.

Operational & Resource Management

• Use equipment and resources safely and effectively.

• Support stock control and equipment checks as required.

• Maintain accurate documentation in line with organisational standards.

Demonstrate flexibility to meet service needs, including participation in shift patterns and on-call if required

Requirements

Essential

• Registered Practitioner with NMC or HCPC registration (ODP or Nurse)
• Post-qualification experience in an operating theatre setting
• Experience in 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
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team
• Good communication and organisational skills
• Competent IT skills, including Microsoft Office and electronic patient record system
• Evidence of continuous professional development
• ILS certification

Desirable

• Mentorship or Practice Assessor qualification
• Relevant specialist training (e.g. sedation)
• Participation in audit, service improvement, or change management
• ALS certification