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 Surgical First Assistant?

A Surgical First Assistant (SFA) is a registered healthcare professional who provides dedicated support to the operating surgeon during procedures but does not perform surgical interventions.

Responsibilities

SFAs are involved in various aspects of the surgical process, including:

• Enhancing communication between the operating team, ward, and patient
• Assisting with patient positioning and skin preparation
• Handling tissues and organs under the surgeon’s supervision
• Cutting sutures and ties
• Performing simple wound dressings
• Contributing to post-operative care
• Ensuring patient safety and maintaining confidentiality

Skills and Attributes:

Key skills for SFAs include:

• Attention to detail
• Strong coordination skills
• Ability to work effectively under pressure

Area of Practice

While primarily focused on intraoperative tasks, SFAs may also participate in pre- and post-operative visits.

Tasks and Activities:

• Improving communication between the theatre, patient, and ward
• Assisting with the completion of the WHO surgical safety checklist
• Performing male and female urethral catheterisation
• Helping position the patient and assessing tissue viability
• Preparing the skin and draping before surgery
• Handling tissues and organs for access or exposure
• Assisting with haemostasis and maintaining a clear operating field
• Operating suction devices under the surgeon’s guidance
• Manipulating cameras and instruments during minimally invasive surgery
• Cutting deep sutures and performing simple wound closures
• Transferring patients to the post-operative anaesthetic care unit

Supervision and Autonomy

SFAs work under the direct supervision of a surgeon, who must remain present in the theatre throughout the procedure. Although SFAs are not permitted to perform surgical interventions, they are allowed to close simple wounds if they have received appropriate training.

Training

To qualify as an SFA, candidates must complete one of two recognised training routes:

• A university-accredited program, such as the BSc in Operating Department Practice
• An in-house training package supported by the AfPP SFA Competency Toolkit

Eligibility and Accountability

SFAs must be registered healthcare professionals, such as nurses, operating department practitioners, or physiotherapists, with at least 12 months of post-registration experience. They are accountable to their original regulatory bodies, such as the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) or the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), and are encouraged to follow the AfPP voluntary code of conduct.

Banding

SFAs typically fall within Band 5–7, depending on experience and responsibilities.

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.