Purpose of the Role
To provide safe, timely, and efficient portering support within the operating theatres, ensuring the smooth flow of patients, equipment, specimens, and supplies. The postholder plays a key role in maintaining theatre protocols, supporting infection prevention standards, and contributing to a safe surgical environment.
Key Responsibilities
Patient Transport & Support
- Safely transfer patients to and from theatres, recovery, wards, and other clinical areas.
- Assist with patient positioning, comfort, and dignity during transfers.
- Communicate clearly with scrub, anaesthetic and recovery team.
Theatre & Equipment Support
- Prepare theatres by moving equipment, trolleys, and supplies as required.
- Transport clinical equipment between theatres sites (FSC/FCL), recovery, and sterile services.
- Support the safe movement of gas cylinders, ensuring correct storage and handling.
- Assist with clearing down theatres before and after procedures.
Infection Prevention & Cleanliness
- Adhere to infection prevention and control standards at all times.
- Support cleaning teams by removing waste, linen, and contaminated items promptly.
- Maintain cleanliness of trolleys, wheel[1]chairs, and equipment used for patient movement.
Operational Support
- Respond promptly to theatre calls, emergencies, and urgent requests.
- Assist with stock movement, including sterile instrument trays and consumables.
- Report equipment faults or safety concerns immediately.
Specimen Handling
- Transport specimens (including urgent and time‑critical samples) in line with
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GCSE Math’s and English (or equivalent)
- Experience in a healthcare or portering environment
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Understanding of manual handling and safe patient movement
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Strong communication and teamwork skills
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Basic Life Support (BLS)
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Knowledge of medical gases, equipment storage, and stock rotation
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Ability to use hospital IT systems
Physical Requirements
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Ability to undertake frequent moderate to heavy physical activity.
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Ability to stand, walk, push, and pull equipment for extended periods.
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Fit to perform manual handling tasks safely.
