The Cataract Scrub Nurse is responsible for delivering high-quality perioperative nursing care within the ophthalmology theatre environment, with a primary focus on cataract surgery procedures. The post holder will support the surgical team in providing safe, effective, and patient-centred care while maintaining high clinical standards, infection prevention measures, and compliance with theatre protocols.
The role includes preparing theatre environments, assisting during ophthalmic cataract procedures, ensuring equipment readiness, and supporting patients throughout the perioperative pathway.
Main duties of the job
* Provide skilled scrub assistance for cataract surgery and other ophthalmic procedures where required.
* Prepare and maintain sterile fields, instruments, consumables, and ophthalmic equipment for surgical procedures.
* Assist surgeons and the multidisciplinary team during operative procedures.
* Ensure all surgical instruments and equipment are checked, prepared, and functioning correctly prior to surgery.
* Maintain patient safety, dignity, comfort, and confidentiality throughout the perioperative journey.
* Undertake patient identification and safety checks in line with WHO Surgical Safety Checklist procedures.
* Monitor and maintain aseptic technique and infection prevention standards at all times.
* Anticipate the needs of the surgeon during procedures to ensure smooth theatre flow.
* Accurately document perioperative care and theatre records in line with Phoenix Health Solutions policies and professional standards.
* Participate in stock control and ensure appropriate levels of ophthalmic supplies are maintained.
* Assist with the cleaning, maintenance, and safe handling of specialist ophthalmic instruments and equipment.
* Participate in audit, quality improvement, and clinical governance activities.
* Support junior staff, students, and new team members where appropriate
About us
Our Cataract Service operates as an independent provider delivering NHS-contracted services, combining NHS values with the flexibility and responsiveness of an independent organisation. We are committed to providing safe, high-quality, patient-centred care in line with national standards and robust clinical governance frameworks.
We are a supportive and collaborative multidisciplinary team focused on delivering timely, compassionate and efficient care to our patients. Our culture is built on professionalism, mutual respect and continuous improvement. Staff are encouraged to contribute ideas, take ownership of quality initiatives and play an active role in shaping service development.
Being independently operated allows us to make decisions efficiently and respond quickly to service needs, while maintaining strong alignment with NHS standards, pathways and expectations. We work closely with NHS partners to ensure seamless patient care and uphold the highest clinical standards.
We are committed to investing in our people through ongoing training, professional development opportunities and a positive working environment where staff feel valued and supported.
We welcome applications from individuals who share our commitment to excellence, teamwork and delivering outstanding ophthalmology care for NHS patients.
Job responsibilities
Clinical Responsibilities
* Deliver safe, evidence-based perioperative nursing care within ophthalmology theatres.
* Scrub for cataract surgery procedures including phacoemulsification and intraocular lens implantation.
* Prepare ophthalmic surgical trays, consumables, and specialist equipment.
* Ensure safe handling and accountability of surgical instruments, swabs, needles, and sharps.
* Recognise and respond appropriately to clinical emergencies within the theatre environment.
* Adhere to infection prevention, decontamination, and sterile field protocols.
Communication
* Communicate effectively with patients to provide reassurance and clear explanations before procedures.
* Work collaboratively with surgeons, operating department practitioners, and wider theatre teams.
* Escalate concerns relating to patient safety, equipment, or staffing appropriately.
Professional Responsibilities
* Practice in accordance with the NMC and HCPC Code and Phoenix Health Solutions values.
* Maintain professional registration and undertake continuing professional development.
* Participate in competency assessments, mandatory training, and appraisal processes.
* Maintain accurate and timely clinical documentation.
Health & Safety
* Comply with theatre safety standards, COSHH, manual handling, and infection prevention policies.
* Report incidents, equipment faults, and near misses in accordance with Phoenix Health Solutions Ltd procedures.
Ensure safe use and storage of ophthalmic instruments and consumables.
Qualifications
* Registered ODP HPCP Registered
* Basic Life Support Certification
* Immediate Life Support Certification
Knowledge and Skills
* Knowledge & Skills
* Strong understanding of aseptic technique and perioperative practice.
* Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
* Ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary team.
* Good organisational and time management skills.
* Ability to remain calm and focused under pressure.
* Knowledge of cataract surgery procedures and ophthalmic pathways.
* Personal Attributes
* Professional, compassionate, and patient-focused approach.
* Reliable, flexible, and adaptable to service demands.
* Attention to detail and commitment to maintaining high clinical standards.
* Ability to prioritise workload effectively.
* Positive and proactive team member.
* Flexibility to work across theatre sessions and service needs.
* Ability to work flexible hours including Saturdays
* Compliance with all mandatory training requirements.
* DBS clearance required.
* Commitment to maintaining confidentiality and professional standards at all times.
* Understanding of clinical governance, audit, and patient safety initiatives.
* Familiarity with electronic patient record systems.
* Knowledge of Systm One Patient Administration System
Experience
* Recent post-registration nursing or ODP experience.
* Experience working within a theatre or surgical environment.
* Experience maintaining sterile technique and infection prevention standards.
* Previous ophthalmology theatre experience
* Experience scrubbing for cataract surgery
* Familiarity with ophthalmic instruments and equipment.
Disclosure and Barring Service Check
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.
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