Theatre Practitioner- Anaesthetics & Recovery

Purpose of Role

The Theatre Practitioner – Anaesthetics & Recovery is responsible for delivering high-quality, patient-centred perioperative care, with a primary focus on anaesthetics and rotational responsibility within recovery.

The post-holder will work as part of the theatre team to ensure safe, effective, and efficient care throughout the patient pathway. They will contribute to the smooth running of theatre lists and support colleagues in delivering excellent patient care.

The role requires accountability in line with the NMC/HCPC Code of Conduct, a commitment to clinical governance, and participation in education, audit, and service improvement activities.

Key Responsibilities:

Clinical Leadership & Patient Care

Deliver safe, effective perioperative care across anaesthetics and recovery, with rotational or service-led allocation.
• Assist with anaesthetic procedures, including airway management, patient monitoring, and emergency situations, under appropriate supervision.
• Provide high-quality post-anaesthetic care, including patient assessment, monitoring, and discharge in line with agreed criteria.
• Participate in the assessment, planning, delivery, and evaluation of patient care across the perioperative pathway.
• Recognise and respond appropriately to changes in patient condition, escalating concerns as required.

 Team Working & Support

 • Work collaboratively with the theatre team to ensure safe and efficient patient flow.
• Support senior staff in the coordination of theatre activity.
• Contribute to a positive and supportive team environment.
• Support and assist junior staff, students, and new team members as appropriate.
• Participate in induction and ongoing team development activities.

Clinical Governance & Quality

• Maintain high standards of care in line with national and local guidance, including:

  • NICE guidance

  • NatSSIPs / LocSSIPs

  • NCEPOD recommendations

  • Royal College standards

• Participate in audit, quality improvement, and service development initiatives.

• Report incidents, risks, and near misses in line with organisational policy.

• Adhere to policies, procedures, and standard operating practices.

• Contribute to maintaining a safe clinical environment.

Communication & Collaboration

• Work effectively with the multi-disciplinary team to support the smooth running of operating lists.

• Communicate clearly and professionally with patients, relatives, and colleagues.

• Support coordination between departments to ensure a positive patient experience.

Education & Professional Development

• Participate in teaching, supervision, and competency development as appropriate.

• Maintain and develop knowledge in anaesthetics and recovery practice.

• Engage in continuous professional development and reflective practice.

• Work towards relevant competencies and role development opportunities.

Operational & Resource Management

• Use equipment and resources safely and effectively.

• Support stock control and equipment checks as required.

• Maintain accurate documentation in line with organisational standards.

• Demonstrate flexibility to meet service needs, including participation in shift patterns and on-call if required.

Essential

• Registered Practitioner with NMC or HCPC registration (ODP or Nurse)

• Post-qualification experience in an operating theatre setting

• Experience in anaesthetics and recovery

• Demonstrable experience in anaesthetics, with a primary focus in this area and regular participation in recovery to maintain skills and support service demands

• Ability to work effectively as part of a team

• Good communication and organisational skills

• Competent IT skills, including Microsoft Office and electronic patient record system

• Evidence of continuous professional development

• ILS certification
  

Desirable

• Mentorship or Practice Assessor qualification

• Relevant specialist training (e.g. sedation)

• Participation in audit, service improvement, or change management

• ALS certification