Lead Healthcare Assistant

Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust

At Moorfields, people’s sight matters—and so do the people who make it possible.

The post holder, after the necessary training and induction, will take responsibility for the clinical and operational support and delivery of services in the theatre department at Moorfields South Division at St George’s Hospital after training and achievement of the available competencies. The post holder is responsible for assisting in the care of the surgical patient during the peri-operative period by supporting the multi-disciplinary team.

The post holder is also responsible for the maintenance and procurement of the necessary stock for MEH rges Theatres. In addition, the post holder will audit instruments, anaesthetic and surgical consumables, implants and be a part of the theatre team as circulating person. The incumbent will also manage and oversee the day-to-day activities of other healthcare assistants, ensuring effective coordination with the multidisciplinary team, support, and guidance to maintain high standards of care and operational efficiency.

• Assisting in the preparation of the operating theatre.
• Assisting the surgical team during procedures as a theatre circulator.
• Assisting in the general upkeep and maintenance of stock levels in theatres.
• Providing a safe environment that minimises the risk of infection, promoting health and safety.
• Ensuring the team brief, surgical safety checklist and de‑brief are completed effectively.
• Assisting qualified staff in the transport of patients to and from the Duke Elder Ward, theatres and recovery.
• Moving and transferring patients between beds and operating tables in a safe manner, minimizing discomfort.
• Performing stock checks and procurement of consumables alongside qualified staff.
• Contributing to patient care and clinical activity in the department, supporting peri‑ and post‑operative care.
• Communicating effectively, respectfully and in a timely manner within the team, maintaining confidentiality and dignity.
• Capturing and maintaining accurate patient data/documentation.
• Participating in meetings of Theatre Department staff.
• Assisting in positioning the patient for surgical procedures and preparing tables/trolleys and beds as appropriate.
• Preparing the ophthalmic operating theatre and assisting the ophthalmic surgical team.
• Checking the environment and equipment for cleanliness and carrying out cleaning procedures.
• Supplying the sterile team with items, including instrument packs, and preparing sterile and non‑sterile equipment.
• Assisting in gowning and gloving.
• Actively participating in Safer Surgery steps and in swab, instrument and needle count.
• Performing clinical work and related tasks as delegated by qualified nursing staff following appropriate training.
• Liaising effectively with all stakeholders, including carers and relatives, to provide an integrated service.
• Attaining competencies such as patient observations (BP, ECG when required).
• Acting as a chaperone when required.

• Handling procurement and maintenance of stock levels.
• GENESIS system scanning and inventory management.
• GALAXY Theatre System Management Support.
• Ordering and upkeep of consumables, supplies, implants and instruments.

• Competitive salary (including high‑cost area supplement).
• Membership of the NHS Pension Scheme.
• 24/7 independent counselling support.
• Career‑long learning and development opportunities.
• Excellent transport connections.
• Access to NHS and Blue Light discount schemes.
• Free Pilates classes.
• Full support and training to develop your skills.

• O’level/GCSE English and Maths (A*-C) or equivalent.
• NVQ or equivalent technical or science‑based qualification (e.g., BTech).
• Minimum of 2 years working in an NHS hospital.
• Ophthalmic clinical knowledge and skills.
• Excellent communication skills, verbal and written.
• Basic IT skills.

• Care Certificate.
• Experience with intra‑operative biometry and scans.
• Experience with Genesis Inventory Management System.
• Experience with Galaxy.
• Experience with Open Eyes.

Due to the nature of…