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Operating Department Practitioner

Role Summary

The South West Ambulatory Orthopaedic Centre ( SWAOC) is based within the Nightingale Hospital in Sowton, a few miles from the centre of Exeter. The Hospital is renowned for it's patient excellent outcomes and a centre for innovation in ambulatory care. SWAOC surgical cases include  hip and knee arthroplasty, soft tissue knee surgery, foot and ankle surgery, spinal surgery and soon to start shoulder surgery. SWAOC works closely with surgeons from across the Devon region, developing professional links across a large geographical area.

About the Role

For more information on the Job Description and Responsibilities please click the link below.

More detail about the role

SWAOC has 2 theatres , 2 wards , a pre -assessment suite and a post -operative recovery unit. 

Post- anaesthetic care in the Recovery unit is provided by Registered Nurses and Operating Department Practitioners for patients undergoing  orthopaedic surgery procedures under general or regional anaesthesia. 

Working Patterns aim to meet the operational demands of the service. Currently the SWAOC recovery unit covers hours from 8 am to 6pm and may extend from 5 days to 7 day working subject to service development and need.

In SWAOC you will work closely with the multidisciplinary team to help you achieve the best for our patients and build on your knowledge and skills. You will have the support of senior colleagues and links to the main site hospital to develop your skills where required. SWOC is a small team of  friendly and dedicated professionals who work closely together to provide a positive experience for patients and colleagues, based on strong RDUH Trust values.

We are 5 mins form junction 29 M5, free shuttle bus from the Park and Ride and staff free parking opposite the Nightingale Hospital. Sowton. Exeter.

Working Pattern: 37.5 hours per week. Day shifts 8am to 6pm currently 5 day working expected to extend to 7 day per week, subject to service requirements.

Interview Date: To be confirmed

For further information please contact: Sarah Lewis Clinical Matron sarah.lewis84@nhs.net

Pay: The salary advertised for this position reflects the Agenda for Change 2026-7 rates, inclusive of a 3.3% pay award implemented from April 2026. If you join before this date,, remuneration will be based on the 2025-6 pay bandings (Pay scales for 2025/26 | NHS Employers)

As an inclusive employer, the Royal Devon values diversity and is committed to creating a culture of inclusivity where everyone can be themselves and reach their full potential. We believe in fostering a sense of belonging and actively encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, cultures, and abilities. We recognise the advantages of having a diverse workforce that reflects the communities we serve.

Preference will be given to staff with ‘Priority’ and 'At Risk' status including NHS At Risk staff throughout Devon.

The Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust reserves the right to close vacancy when sufficient applications have been received.

The Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust was established in April 2022, bringing together the expertise of both the Royal Devon and Exeter NHS Foundation Trust and Northern Devon Healthcare NHS Trust.

About Us

Stretching across Northern, Eastern and Mid Devon, we have a workforce of over 15,000 staff, making us the largest employer in Devon. Our core services, which we provide to more than 615,000 people, cover more than 2,000 square miles across Devon, while some of our specialist services cover the whole of the peninsula, extending our reach as far as Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.

We deliver a wide range of emergency, specialist and general medical services through North Devon District Hospital and the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital (Wonford). Alongside our two acute hospitals, we provide integrated health and social care services across a variety of settings, including community inpatient hospitals, outpatient clinics, and within people’s own homes. We also offer primary care services, a range of specialist community services, and Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARC).

Our state-of-the-art equipment, leading technologies and strong links to local universities put us at the forefront of research and innovations, enabling us to provide world-class care to our local communities.

Our values are at the heart of everything we do, click here to find out more

It has never been a more exciting time to join the Royal Devon, as you will help to shape our services as we continue along our integration journey.

Benefits

Looking after you is important to us.

We strive to help our staff create a healthy work-life balance through flexible working schemes and our family friendly policies.

If you are starting out in the NHS, you’ll start with 27 days paid annual leave (plus bank holidays), rising to 33 days plus bank holidays.

You will benefit from access to our own comprehensive occupational health services, including counselling, onsite wellbeing activities and groups.

We will work together to maintain a culture that develops and supports you and your team.

This might include funding for a care certificate, a degree or leadership qualifications. Or it might include days off to study, engage in CPD or rotational placements to help you hone your skills. Wherever you are heading in the NHS, we will help you get there.

Salary is not the only financial benefit

You will have access to an extensive range of staff discounts on shopping, fitness and leisure options and you can spread the cost of technology and home appliance purchases from major retailers. You will also have access to other benefits including:

  • National discount services such as the Blue Light Card and Health Service Discounts.
  • Salary sacrifice options including our OFSTED rated outstanding nursery onsite at Exeter
  • Car lease schemes.
  • The NHS Pension scheme (one of the most generous and comprehensive in the UK).
  • Cycle to work scheme

These are just a few of the benefits available – if the role is something you are interested in, we would love to hear from you.

Apply

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