Lead Theatre Practitioner | and Tunbridge NHS Trust

Overview

An exciting opportunity has opened for a Lead Theatre Practitioner at Maidstone Hospital with experience and an interest in Ophthalmics.

Maidstone Hospital has eleven theatres; providing in-patient and day-case elective surgery for orthopaedics, gynaecology, urology and breast surgery, in addition to general surgery, ENT and ophthalmology.

We are seeking an experienced Lead Theatre Practitioner (RN or ODP) to be part of the Maidstone Theatre Department; providing proven evidence of experience in the listed specialities. Possessing an aptitude for adaptability; you will preferably have a proficient knowledge of anaesthetics and be responsible for managing the equipment, maintenance and training.

The successful candidate will be dynamic and motivated to drive theatre efficiency; working closely with surgical and anaesthetic doctors to deliver excellent patient care. You will demonstrate the ability to work unsupervised, perform well under pressure and be experienced in change management.

You should possess exemplary communication and organisational skills, be approachable and demonstrate leadership qualities that focus on staff well-being and a positive departmental culture.

• Ensure the provision of a high standard of care to all service users
• To participate in risk assessments, audits and investigation of incidents.
• To work within the framework of the NMC/HCPC Code of Professional Conduct at all times
• Possess an awareness of legislation and policies governing theatre practice
• To maintain a high level of competent practice within the Scope of Professional Practice
• In partnership with the Clinical Director, Directorate Matron and General Manager develop, implement and lead the framework for clinical governance and patient safety including monitoring of effectiveness
• Responsibility to ensure care is patient-focused and underpinned by evidence-based practice and continual knowledge and skills of staff
• Lead on Directorate Nursing/Practitioners initiatives
• To ensure the safeguarding agenda within the directorate is implemented with effective systems throughout the service including effective liaison with other agencies as required
• Support systems for measuring and improving the quality of the patient experience within the Directorate
• In collaboration with the Associate Director of Nursing, Clinical Director, Directorate Matron and General Manager, support the Directorate’s approach to improving compliance with AFPP Standards Units, NHSLA standards, CQC registration and other regulatory requirements
• Ensure that systems and processes are in place to maintain the health and safety of the patients, visitors and staff.

Lead Theatre Practitioner (RN or ODP) with experience in the listed specialties. Aptitude for adaptability; proficient knowledge of anaesthetics preferred. Able to work unsupervised, handle pressure and contribute to change management. Excellent communication and organisational skills with leadership qualities focusing on staff well-being and a positive departmental culture.

Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust ranks among the top 10 NHS Trusts nationwide and was named the second-best Trust to work for in the South East in the 2023 and 2024 NHS Staff Survey.

We are a large acute hospital trust in south-east England, providing general hospital services and specialist care to around 600,000 residents in West Kent and East Sussex. With a dedicated and diverse team of over 8,000 staff we offer specialised cancer services to over two million people through the Kent Oncology Centre.

Fordcombe Hospital, near Tunbridge Wells, became part of the Trust in October 2024. Specialising in planned care, it offers two operating theatres, 28 inpatient and day-care beds, diagnostic services (X-ray, MRI, CT, and endoscopy), and consultation/treatment rooms.

Looking for flexible working? We are a flexible working-friendly organisation. Whether it’s adjusting your hours or exploring other flexible arrangements, we want to work with you to find the best solution for you, our patients, and the Trust. Talk to us about how we can accommodate…