The Dermatology Patch Test Technician plays a key role in supporting dermatologists and specialist nurses in the delivery of the cutaneous allergy patch testing services. This role involves preparing, applying, and removing standardized allergen patch tests, monitoring patients during the testing process, and recording accurate clinical data. The technician ensures that patients are supported throughout their care pathway, contributing to the safe, effective, and high-quality management of suspected contact dermatitis and related skin conditions.
Prepare, apply, and remove dermatology patch test chambers in line with clinical protocols.
Provide clear instructions and support to patients before, during, and after testing.
Monitor patients for any adverse reactions and promptly report concerns to the clinical team.
Accurately document test details and outcomes in patient records.
Ensure patch testing equipment and materials are prepared, maintained, and stored safely.
Work collaboratively with dermatologists, nurses, and administrative staff to deliver an efficient and high-quality service.
Uphold infection prevention, confidentiality, and patient safety standards at all times.
Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust (SWB) serves Birmingham and the Black Country – one of the country’s most culturally diverse areas. It’s a friendly and welcoming place – a place where you can belong, and a place where you can grow.
We care for our patients, we care about our population, and we care about our people.
Our values – Ambition, Respect and Compassion – are at the heart of who we are. They guide us every step of the way; how we work with each other, and how we look after our patients and their families; how we respect and value the rich diversity of our team and our community.
Our Trust has always aspired to be more than a hospital, more than a healthcare provider. Our purpose is to “Improve the Life Chances and Health Outcomes of our Population.” It is what inspires, drives, and unites us every day. It’s what makes us unique.
We want working at SWB to feel like more than just a job. We want our Trust to be a place where you can feel you belong. A place where you feel happy, safe, and rewarded. A place where you can develop your career in whatever way you choose. When we say we’re ‘with you all the way’ we want you to know that we mean it. Visit the SWB website to find out more about our ambitions and people plans.
The Healthcare Assistant (HCA) will support the dermatology team in the safe and effective delivery of the cutaneous allergys/patch testing service, a specialist diagnostic pathway used to identify allergic contact dermatitis. The post ‑ holder will assist with all stages of patch testing, including preparation, application, reading support, documentation and patient education. All work must be carried out in line with British Dermatological Nursing Group (BDNG) Best Practice Guidelines and the BAD/BSCA Cutaneous Allergy Service Standards.
The role requires excellent attention to detail, strong communication skills, and the ability to work within clear clinical boundaries while recognising when to escalate concerns to registered professionals.
Prepare patch test materials, allergens, chambers and equipment according to BDNG best ‑ practice procedures. Review patient information, confirm appointment schedule (Day 0, Day 2, Day 4 and Day 7 if appropriate), and ensure patients meet safety criteria for testing (e.g. no recent sun exposure leading to sun tan). Ensure the patch testing clinical area is organised, clean and compliant with infection ‑ prevention standards.
