At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist surgeons in the operating theatre and ensure patient safety during procedures.
- Company: Join MedicsPro, a leading agency supporting NHS and private hospitals.
- Benefits: Flexible agency work, access to diverse surgical environments, and ongoing support.
- Other info: Work with a supportive team and enjoy opportunities tailored to your skills.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in patient care while gaining valuable experience.
- Qualifications: Must have current NMC or HCPC registration and relevant SFA qualification.
The predicted salary is between 29700 - 36300 £ per year.
MedicsPro is expanding its team of experienced Surgical First Assistants to support increasing demand across NHS and private hospital settings throughout London and the surrounding areas. We are looking for qualified SFAs with substantial scrub experience who can work confidently alongside operating surgeons and the wider theatre team. This opportunity may suit registered Nurses or Operating Department Practitioners seeking flexible agency work across a range of surgical environments.
Key responsibilities
- Providing superficial and deep tissue retraction
- Assisting with tissue and organ handling
- Supporting haemostasis under the direction of the operating surgeon
- Manipulating cameras and instruments during laparoscopic procedures
- Cutting sutures and supporting wound management
- Assisting with patient positioning, skin preparation and surgical draping
- Completing and contributing to the WHO surgical safety checklist
- Maintaining clear and accurate perioperative records
- Ensuring instruments, equipment and consumables are available and prepared
- Supporting the safe and efficient flow of operating lists
- Working as a scrub practitioner when SFA support is not required
- Supporting and providing guidance to less experienced theatre colleagues
Where covered by accredited training, professional scope and local policy, duties may also include:
- Infiltrating wounds with local anaesthetic
- Placing wound drains
- Closing skin using sutures, staples or adhesives
You will work under the clinical direction of the operating surgeon while remaining professionally accountable to your statutory regulator and the applicable hospital policies.
Applicants must have:
- Current NMC or HCPC registration
- A recognised professional background in nursing, operating department practice or a relevant healthcare discipline
- A recognised and accredited Surgical First Assistant qualification or study module
- Recent experience working in the SFA role
- A clear understanding of professional scope, accountability and clinical governance
- Appropriate professional indemnity arrangements
- The ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary theatre team
- Strong communication, organisation and patient-safety skills
Successful applicants will also need to meet the relevant agency and client compliance requirements before commencing work.
Why work with MedicsPro?
- Access to opportunities across NHS and private hospital settings
- Flexible agency work across London and surrounding areas
- Support from an experienced specialist theatre recruitment team
- Opportunities suited to your availability, experience and clinical scope
- Ongoing assistance with compliance and placement requirements
Surgical Assistant in London employer: MedicsPro
Join a leading healthcare provider in West Yorkshire that prioritises advanced clinical practice and offers a supportive environment for professional growth. As an Advanced Physiotherapy Practitioner, you'll enjoy the autonomy to make impactful clinical decisions while managing a diverse caseload, all within a culture that champions innovation and collaborative learning. With ongoing development opportunities and a commitment to quality care, this role is perfect for those looking to elevate their career in a forward-thinking organisation.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Surgical Assistant in London
✨Get Involved with Local Health Networks
Start mingling with local health networks and community groups in your area. These connections can lead to freelance gigs as many healthcare facilities look for short-term help and we all know word-of-mouth is key in nursing!
✨Showcase Your Skills Online
Create a public portfolio that highlights your nursing experience, skills, and any specialised training you've completed. Use platforms like LinkedIn to connect with potential clients and showcase testimonials from previous patients or employers; this adds credibility and visibility to your freelance brand.
✨Explore Freelance Platforms for Healthcare
Check out freelance-specific job platforms focused on healthcare – websites like NurseFly or Nurse.com have listings that might just have the perfect gig for you. Signing up there can give you access to clients specifically looking for quick-care solutions.
✨Be Present in Community Health Events
Attend health fairs, workshops, or community health events. Getting your name out there by participating in discussions or offering free health consultations can help us find potential clients who are looking for freelance nursing support!
We think you need these skills to ace Surgical Assistant in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Nursing Credentials:For a freelance nursing position like Surgical Assistant, it's crucial to highlight your qualifications right at the top of your CV. Include your nursing degree, any special certifications (like CPR or advanced life support), and your registration details. Don't forget to mention any specific skills that relate to patient care — think about your experiences in various healthcare settings!
Tailor Your Portfolio:When applying for a freelance gig, a portfolio can be a game-changer! Include examples of your work in patient care, like case studies or testimonials from previous clients or employers. If you're able to add any projects where you've implemented patient care plans or improved patient outcomes, that will catch the eye of MedicsPro!
Flexibility is Key:You're not applying for a traditional full-time role, so highlight your availability and flexibility in your cover letter. Freelance work often requires juggling various clients, so mention how you can adapt to different schedules and patient needs — this shows you're ready to hit the ground running in Surgical Assistant.
Demonstrate Your Understanding of Patient Care Challenges:In your CV and cover letter, it’s beneficial to briefly touch upon challenges you've faced in patient care and how you overcame them. This shows not only your experience but also your problem-solving skills and resilience — qualities that are crucial for a freelance nurse navigating different environments. Remember to apply through our website for a seamless application process!
How to prepare for a job interview at MedicsPro
✨Showcase Your Specialisation
Make sure to highlight any specific areas of patient care you excel in, such as geriatric care, paediatrics, or wound management. Freelancing in nursing means clients will want to know how your skills can directly benefit their patients, so bring any relevant certifications or experiences to the table.
✨Bring Your Portfolio of Success
Since it’s freelance work, you should present a portfolio that includes case studies, positive patient feedback, or evidence of your outcomes. This will help demonstrate your previous success and patient satisfaction levels, giving potential clients confidence in your skills.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect interviewers to throw some real-world patient scenarios at you. These might test your clinical judgement and decision-making skills. Brush up on your clinical protocols and be ready to explain how you’d handle specific situations – this is where our hands-on experience will shine.
✨Discuss Flexibility and Availability
As a freelancer, you’ll need to navigate different schedules and patient needs. Be prepared to discuss your availability and how you can adjust to accommodate client schedules while ensuring consistent, high-quality care. This shows that you’re not only skilled but also reliable and adaptable.
