Theatre Nurse (maternity cover) Part of the Affidea healthcare group, Hillsborough Private Clinic is recognised as a leading provider of expert care across a wide range of medical specialties in Northern Ireland. With highly respected consultants and surgeons, we are known for delivering exceptional patient care and clinical excellence. We currently have a vacancy for a Theatre Nurse. This is an exciting opportunity to join a well-regarded healthcare group during a period of growth, with a new state-of-the-art hospital planned in Belfast in the near future. About the Role The Theatre Nurse is responsible for providing high-quality, safe, and effective perioperative care to patients undergoing surgical procedures. You will work as part of a multidisciplinary theatre team, supporting all aspects of the patients journey - preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative - to ensure excellent clinical outcomes and patient experience. This post is offered on a fixed-term basis for maternity cover, with the potential for a permanent appointment thereafter. Key Responsibilities Clinical/Professional Duties Prepare the operating theatre and equipment in accordance with planned surgical lists and infection control standards. Participate in all phases of perioperative care, including anaesthetic, scrub, circulating, and recovery roles, as required. Ensure the safety and quality of the patients journey through effective planning and coordination of care, including smooth transitions to other healthcare professionals as appropriate. Check, prepare, and maintain surgical instruments, equipment, and consumables. Assist the surgical team by anticipating their needs and maintaining a sterile environment at all times. Provide safe patient positioning and effective skin preparation in line with theatre protocols. Monitor and record patient observations, ensuring effective communication with the surgical and anaesthetic teams. Ensure clear and effective communication with staff, patients, relatives, and carers. Comply with all policies on consent, confidentiality, infection prevention, and health & safety. Adhere to DHSSPS and NMC guidelines, including the safe handling, administration, storage, and custody of medicinal products. Maintain effective records management, ensuring all documentation (written or electronic) is managed in line with organisational and NMC guidelines. Assist in the development and review of procedures and protocols as necessary. Management Take charge when necessary. Supervise and delegate to other clinical staff as appropriate. Participate in staff induction, training and other learning as required. Manage poor performance as appropriate in line with organisational policies. Assist with the cost-effective use of resources in patient care delivery. Professional Responsibilities Maintain current NMC registration and uphold professional standards in accordance with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) Code of Conduct. Participate in ongoing professional development and annual appraisal. Contribute to the development of theatre policies, procedures, and clinical audit initiatives. Report incidents, near misses, and risks in line with organisational policies. Work collaboratively with consultants, anaesthetists, and support staff to ensure efficient and safe running of theatre lists. Requirements Qualifications and Experience Essential Registered Nurse on Part 1 (Adult) of the live NMC Register. 2 years previous experience in a theatre or perioperative environment. Evidence of ongoing professional development. Desirable Previous experience working in ophthalmology, including assisting in surgical procedures and perioperative patient care. Skills and Competencies Excellent clinical and technical knowledge of theatre practice. Strong communication and teamwork skills. Ability to work under pressure and respond effectively in emergency situations. High attention to detail with a focus on patient safety and infection prevention. Ability to work effectively within a team having a respectful, positive attitude. Flexible and adaptable to changing workloads/priorities. Skills: communication skills. clinical skills theatre practice Teamwork Flexible