Specialist Nurse, Theatre (Operating Theatre) at the African Medical Centre of Excellence (AMCE Abuja) – Deloitte Human Capital Consulting Full Time

Job Title: Specialist Nurse, Theatre (Operating Theatre)

Location: Abuja
Job type: Full-time

About the Client

• The African Medical Centre of Excellence, Abuja (AMCE Abuja), a quaternary-level multi-specialty medical institution developed by Afreximbank aims to revolutionize healthcare in Africa. Established to address critical gaps, the AMCE Abuja is committed to providing world-class care through innovative research, development, and education.
• The Centre will offer comprehensive services in oncology, haematology, cardiovascular care, and general healthcare across the continent, with plans for expansion. The construction phase, supported by global partners, precedes a phased rollout over six years, evolving into a 500-bed facility.
• Set to commence operations in early 2025, this flagship facility in Abuja is a key part of Afreximbank’s network of healthcare facilities, actively countering brain drain, reducing medical tourism by offering advanced procedures such as stem cell transplantation and state-of-the-art treatments for various diseases, and fostering employment opportunities. The vision for the AMCE initiative is to shape a healthier and more educated future for Africa.

Job Summary

• The Specialist Nurse, Theatre (Operating Theatre) is responsible for providing expert nursing care to patients undergoing surgical procedures within the operating theatre.
• This role involves a wide range of duties, including preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative care, as well as the management of the surgical team and the operating room environment.
• The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of surgical procedures, advanced clinical skills, and a strong commitment to patient safety and quality care.

Core Responsibilities
Preoperative Preparation and Care:

• Conduct comprehensive assessments of patients prior to surgery, including reviewing medical histories, allergies and current health conditions.
• Prepare the operating room for surgeries, ensure all the necessary equipment, instruments and supplies are available and sterile.
• Conduct preoperative assessments, review patient history, verify the surgical procedure and assess for any.
• Monitor patient’s vital signs, fluid levels and positioning, communicate any changes or concerns to the surgical team.

Intraoperative Assistance:

• Assist the surgical team during procedures, including positioning patients, handing instruments, and monitoring vital signs.
• Administer anesthesia and other medications as directed by the anesthetist.
• Maintain a sterile field and adhering to strict infection control protocols.
• Monitor patient’s vital signs and anesthesia status, promptly reporting any deviations to the anesthesiologist or surgeon.
• Support the surgeon in performing complex procedures including orthopedic, cardiac or neurosurgical surgeries.
• Prepare, handle and manage the use of surgical instruments and equipment unique to each procedure.
• Manage surgical drains, catheters and other procedural devices, ensuring proper placement and use.

Postoperative Support and Monitoring:

• Monitor patients in the recovery post-surgery, assessing vital signs, oxygenation and pain levels.
• Transfer patients from the operating room to the recovery unit, ensuring safe handling and positioning.
• Conduct postoperative assessments and medication, monitor patient’s condition, observing for signs of complications.
• Communicate the patient’s status and needs to the post-anesthesia care team.
• Educate patients on wound care, medication management, and signs of potential complications after discharge.

Safety and Compliance:

• Coordinate and manage surgical instruments, ensuring they are accounted for before, during, and after the surgery.
• Maintain a high level of operational readiness in the theatre environment, ensuring that all equipment is functioning and available for procedures.
• Ensure adherence to aseptic techniques and infection control measures to minimize the risk of healthcare-associated infections.
• Ensure proper sterilization and disinfection of surgical instruments and equipment
• Uphold high standards of patient safety and care, adhering to relevant protocols and guidelines.

Quality Improvement:

• Participate in quality improvement initiatives to enhance patient outcomes and reduce complications.
• Contribute to the development and implementation of evidence-based practice guidelines.
• Collect and analyze data to identify trends and opportunities for improvement.

Training and Professional Development:

• Ensure that all staff in the operating room are properly trained and adhere to AMCE policies and safety standards.
• Contribute to ongoing education programs for nursing staff and assist with training on theatre care and related issues
• Stay updated with research and evidence-based practices in theatre care.

Requirements
Educational Qualification:

• Bachelor’s Degree in nursing (BSc Nursing) or equivalent from a recognized institution

Professional Requirements:

• Valid nursing license
• Membership in relevant medical associations
• Additional certifications or training in specific surgical specialities is an added advantage

Experience Requirements:

• Minimum of 3-5 years’ experience in a surgical care setting
• Experience in managing or leading surgical teams is an advantage
• Experience in the operating theatre environment, including knowledge of surgical procedures, aseptic techniques, and patient care in the perioperative period

Knowledge Requirements:

• Advanced clinical knowledge in perioperative nursing, including surgical procedures and critical care.
• Strong knowledge of anaesthesia, and sterile techniques
• Proficiency in aseptic techniques, surgical instrumentation and infection control.
• Proficient in advanced wound care, pain management and postoperative assessment
• Proven knowledge of emergency response protocols in the operating theatre.

​Skill Requirements:

• Effective communication skills to interact with patients, families, and healthcare team members
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to perform effectively in sensitive situations.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills.
• Proficiency in patient assessment and critical-thinking abilities to prioritize patient safety.
• Strong collaborative skills to work seamlessly within a fast-paced multidisciplinary environment.
• Good leadership skills to mentor junior staff and take initiative.

​Personal Abilities:

• Professional attitude towards work
• Shares the AMCE’s vision
• Proactive and organized
• Commitment to clinical governance / improving quality of patient care
• Has personal and professional credibility and commands the respect of colleagues and peers
• Supportive and approachable and capable of inspiring confidence in staff members
• Ability to manage stress and maintain composure in high-pressure situations
• High attention to detail
• Openness to new ideas and continuous improvement
• Ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously
• High levels of honesty and integrity
• Empathy and compassion for patients, with a focus on delivering patient-centred care.

Application Closing Date
Not Specified.

Note: African Medical Centre of Excellence, Abuja (AMCE Abuja) aims to be an Employer of Choice, providing equal opportunity for everyone regardless of their background, gender, race and other protected characteristics.