Instrument Co-ordinator Theatres

NHS Jobs; Massachusetts; On-site; USD 58,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

NHS Jobs is seeking an Instrument Coordinator to ensure the efficient management, maintenance, and availability of surgical instruments across the theatre department. The role supports theatre teams to deliver safe patient care by keeping instruments complete, functional, and ready for procedures.

You will liaise with sterile services, procurement, and clinical staff to reduce delays, maintain accurate instrument records, and coordinate loan requests and transfers as required.

Qualifications

• Experience liaising with sterile services, procurement and clinical staff.
• Ability to maintain accurate instrument records and logs.
• Capable of prioritising tasks and coordinating multiple instrument requests.

Responsibilities

• Act as the primary contact for instrument-related queries in theatres countywide.
• Manage tracking, ordering and maintenance of surgical instruments and prostheses.
• Coordinate cross-site transport of instruments and implants as required.
• Collaborate with sterile services to ensure instrument sets are complete and functional.
• Keep records of instrument sets, repairs and replacements up to date.
• Assist staff to understand instrument requirements for procedures.
• Ensure timely replacement or repair of damaged instruments to avoid delays.
• Support inventory system improvements for tracking instruments.

Skills

Strong communication

Time management

Teamwork

Problem-solving

Attention to detail

Job description

Job Purpose

The Instrument Coordinator will ensure the efficient management, maintenance, and availability of surgical instruments across the theatre department. The role focuses on supporting theatre teams to deliver safe, effective patient care by ensuring instruments are available, complete, and in good working order. This includes liaising with sterile services, procurement, and clinical staff to minimise delays and improve theatre efficiency.

Risk Assessment

This role involves manual handling tasks like lifting heavy instrument trays, with some risk of exposure to biohazardous materials. The post may require standing for long periods and repetitive movements. Occasionally, there may be pressure to meet urgent demands, and some computer work is required for records and inventory management.

Key Duties

• Act as the designated point of contact for all instrument-related queries in theatres countywide.
• Manage the tracking, ordering, and maintenance of surgical instruments and prostheses.
• Coordinate the cross-site transportation of instruments and implants as required.
• Liaise with company representatives Work closely with sterile services to ensure instrument sets are complete, functional, and available as required.
• Maintain accurate records of instrument sets, repairs, and replacements.
• Collaborate with theatre staff to understand specific instrument requirements for different procedures.
• Ensure timely replacement or repair of damaged or faulty instruments to avoid disruption to theatre schedules.
• Assist in maintaining and enhancing the existing inventory system for tracking instruments to ensure accuracy and efficiency.
• Ensure instruments are correctly stored, maintained, and compliant with infection control protocols.
• Support theatre staff by identifying missing or damaged instruments pre- and post-surgery.
• Oversee and coordinate all loan requests for surgical instruments and implants, ensuring timely ordering, delivery, and return.

Training and Development

• Assist with basic guidance and support to staff in correct handling, care, and usage of surgical instruments.
• Attend training as required to maintain knowledge of instrument handling, storage and decontamination.

Communication and Collaboration

• Liaise with sterile services to manage stock levels and ensure continuity of service.
• Escalate concerns to senior staff regarding shortages, damage, or instrument delays.

Quality and Safety

• Ensure compliance with infection prevention and control procedures.
• Contribute to audits of instrument quality and availability.
• Report any identified issues to senior staff for further investigation.

Professional Skills

• Strong communication skills to liaise effectively with colleagues, suppliers, and external teams.
• Ability to follow protocols and procedures with precision to ensure patient safety.
• Time management skills to prioritise multiple tasks efficiently.
• Teamwork and collaboration skills to support a smooth workflow in a busy theatre environment.
• Problem-solving skills to identify and report issues promptly, ensuring minimal disruption to services.

General Duties

• Maintain a clean and organised workspace in line with infection control protocols.
• Support stock management by unpacking, checking, and storing instrument trays, prosthesis and related equipment.
• Adhere to Trust policies, procedures, and standards at all times.
• Participate in team meetings, contributing to service improvements where possible.
• Undertake any other duties appropriate to the role as directed by senior staff.