NHS Scotland is committed to encouraging equality and diversity among our workforce and eliminating unlawful discrimination. The aim is for our workforce to be truly representative and for each employee to feel respected and able to give their best. To this end, NHS Scotland welcomes applications from all sections of society.
An exciting opportunity has arisen for a motivated and compassionate Assistant Practitioner to join our dynamic OPAT team within NHS Highland.
The OPAT service provides high-quality, patient-centred care by delivering intravenous antimicrobial therapy in outpatient and community settings, supporting early discharge and admission avoidance. This role is ideal for someone with a strong clinical support background who is passionate about delivering safe, effective care closer to home.
The OPAT service currently operates Monday to Friday, 08:0016:00. Full-time / part-time hours would be considered for the right candidate.
Key Responsibilities
* Support the delivery of IV antimicrobial therapy under the supervision of registered nurses and medical staff.
* Perform venepuncture, cannulation, and administration of prescribed treatments within scope of practice.
* Monitor and record vital signs, escalate concerns, and contribute to clinical decision-making.
* Assist in the assessment and review of patients receiving OPAT.
* Maintain accurate and timely clinical documentation in line with NHS Highland policies.
* Educate patients and carers on treatment plans, line care, and infection prevention.
* Liaise with pharmacy, microbiology, and community teams to ensure seamless care coordination.
* Participate in service audits, quality improvement initiatives, and data collection.
* Support the training and supervision of junior staff and students.
* Contribute to stock control, equipment maintenance, and infection control procedures.
Essential Criteria
* A minimum of three National Qualifications, including a Standard Grade pass (or equivalent) in English and two other subjects.
* Good communication skills and a strong command of both written and spoken English.
* A relevant qualification at SCQF Level 78 or above, such as:
*
o Higher National Certificate (HNC)
*
o Higher National Diploma (HND)
*
o Professional Development Award (PDA) at Level 8
* Experience working in a healthcare setting, ideally with IV therapy or community nursing exposure.
* Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
Desirable
* Previous experience in OPAT or antimicrobial therapy.
* Venepuncture and cannulation skills (training can be provided).
* Familiarity with NHS electronic health records and documentation systems.
* Good IT skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Excel.
What We Offer
* A supportive and friendly team environment.
* Opportunities for further training and development.
* Access to NHS pension scheme and staff benefits.
Informal enquiries are welcomed. Please contact Ruth Coyne, OPAT Advanced Clinical Nurse Specialist, on ext 6388 or email
Additional Information For Candidates
* You should apply for this post by completing the application process on Jobtrain.
* DO NOT upload a CV as this will not be used for short listing purposes
* Posts close at midnight on the indicated date
* For help to complete an application on Job Train please follow this link:
* To view our accessibility statement, please follow this link:
* Please note that our correspondence method is by e-mail, therefore please ensure you enter your email address accurately
* Please check your e-mail regularly (including junk folders) and also your Jobtrain account for updates
* Please contact Jobtrain Candidate Support Hub - for advice and support with any system issues
* We recommend using the Internet Browser "Google Chrome" or "Microsoft Edge" when using Jobtrain
* Once you have submitted your application form you will be unable to make any amendments
* Some of our vacancies are for internal candidates only. If you are a member of staff, please ensure you update your Jobtrain profile to reflect that you are employed by NHS Highland
NHS Highland is geographically the largest of the 14 regional boards of NHS Scotland, covering an area of 12,500 square miles, across Highland and Argyll & Bute.
As a board we strive to ensure the environment is conducive to nurturing a positive culture, supported and delivered through