At MedicsPro, our experienced team of professional recruiters ensures that we match qualified theatre professionals with locum and permanent roles worldwide.

We Offer:

• A dedicated compliance officer
• A market-leading referral scheme
• Access to exclusive ultrasound vacancies
• Expert consultative service
• Opportunities across the UK, Scotland, Ireland and Wales.
• Preferred supply status with numerous NHS and private healthcare providers
• Weekly payroll

What is a Cardiac Scrub Nurse?

A cardiac scrub nurse, also known as a theatre nurse, plays a vital role in assisting with heart and lung surgeries, or cardiothoracic procedures, such as valve replacements and bypass surgeries. These specialised nurses are essential to ensuring that patients receive high-quality care during these complex operations.

What does a Scrub Nurse do?

Scrub nurses provide practical support to surgeons during surgeries, but their work begins before the operation itself. They are responsible for preparing the operating theatre by sterilising and organising equipment. Over time, a scrub nurse working regularly with a specific surgeon will gain insight into the surgeon's preferences, allowing them to anticipate which instruments will be needed at various stages of a procedure. This preparation improves efficiency and helps ensure a smooth operation.

In addition to assisting during surgeries, scrub nurses play a key role in checking the equipment. They ensure that operating tables, lights, and suction devices are functioning properly before surgery begins. If any equipment malfunctions, scrub nurses promptly report it to the technical staff to ensure it is replaced, avoiding delays to the procedure.

Scrub nurses also collaborate closely with surgeons during operations, observing their techniques and understanding the procedures so they can efficiently provide the necessary instruments. They may attend pre-operation meetings where the surgeon outlines the surgery plan. After the operation, they help fill out patient documentation, including vital signs and details from the surgery, to aid in post-operative care.

Becoming a Scrub Nurse

To pursue a career as a scrub nurse, individuals must complete a nursing program at a university or college. They often have prior experience in emergency medicine and may volunteer to assist in complex surgeries to gain hands-on experience. In addition to practical knowledge of medical instruments and surgical procedures, scrub nurses must possess strong teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills, as they work in a high-pressure environment where quick thinking is essential.

Physical stamina is also crucial, as scrub nurses often stand for long hours during surgeries. In addition, they need strong computer skills to maintain accurate patient records and understand the medical equipment used during surgeries.

Working as a Scrub Nurse

Scrub nurses are commonly employed in hospitals or medical clinics with operating theatres. They may also be part of emergency medical teams, where their surgical expertise is particularly useful. Shifts for scrub nurses typically last 10 to 12 hours, but complex surgeries may require longer working hours. Part-time and on-call shifts are also available in some cases.

Advancing in Scrub Nursing

Scrub nurses have various career advancement opportunities. Those with strong leadership skills may progress to team leader roles, managing other nurses in the operating theatre. Alternatively, nurses who wish to deepen their medical expertise can specialise further, perhaps becoming certified registered nurse anaesthetists.

By combining patient care with surgical expertise, cardiac scrub nurses are integral to the success of cardiothoracic surgeries, ensuring that both the medical team and the patients receive the best possible support during and after procedures.

This is the perfect time to work, with a strong demand for skilled professionals. By choosing MedicsPro, you'll have access to a wide range of opportunities and competitive pay rates.

Key Benefits:

• Access to a Wide Range of Opportunities: MedicsPro offers a broad selection of locum and permanent positions across various medical specialties.
• Competitive Pay Rates: The agency provides highly competitive pay rates to ensure you’re well-compensated for your skills and experience.
• Flexible Work Options: With locum and permanent roles available, you can choose work that suits your schedule and lifestyle, offering greater work-life balance.
• Dedicated Support: MedicsPro offers personalised support from a team of experienced recruitment consultants who are there to guide you through the job search process.
• Exclusive Roles: Many of the positions available through MedicsPro are exclusive, giving you access to roles that may not be advertised elsewhere.
• Ongoing Training and Development: The agency provides opportunities for continuing professional development, helping you stay current with industry standards and enhance your career prospects.
• Fast and Efficient Recruitment Process: MedicsPro ensures a smooth and streamlined recruitment process, minimising the time it takes for you to secure your next role.
• Nationwide and International Opportunities: Whether you're looking for work in the NHS, private sector, or overseas, MedicsPro offers positions across the UK and beyond.