Staff Nurse (Surgery )

Job overview

University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust is delighted to offer a fantastic opportunity to work with us.

Please see below for detailed job description of the role.

Main duties of the job

Are you a compassionate and dedicated Registered Nurse looking to take the next exciting step in your career?

The surgical team at University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust (UHS) is expanding, and we are delighted to offer exciting opportunities for patient focused, friendly and enthusiastic Staff Nurses to join our vibrant, supportive service. This role is ideal for nurses with a passion for surgical care who thrive in a fast paced, collaborative and patient centred environment. You will be part of a skilled multidisciplinary team delivering high quality, holistic care to patients across a diverse range of specialist surgical areas, including:

• General Surgery •    Complex Cancer Surgery •    ENT and Oral Maxillofacial Surgery •    Intestinal Failure •    Acute Surgical Admissions •    Upper GI Surgery •    Colorectal Surgery

We are looking for nurses with excellent communication skills, a commitment to teamwork, and a genuine desire to make a meaningful impact on patient outcomes.

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

Your Responsibilities

As a Staff Nurse within our surgical service, you will play a central role in supporting patients throughout their surgical pathway. Key responsibilities include: •    Monitoring postoperative patients, assessing clinical observations and recognising early signs of deterioration, acting promptly to ensure safety. •    Delivering safe, effective pain management as a core part of daily care. •    Working to clinical guidelines, infection prevention standards and trust policies to maintain a consistent high standard of care. •    Ensuring accurate documentation and the safe administration of medications. •    Collaborating with the multidisciplinary team, supporting ward rounds, contributing to care planning and ensuring smooth continuity of care.

You will also provide vital emotional support to patients and their families. Surgery can be an anxious and uncertain experience, and your calm, compassionate approach will help provide reassurance and clarity. You will advocate for patients’ needs, preferences and rights at every stage. Additionally, you will assist with admissions and discharges, ensuring patients feel informed, supported and confident as they progress through their recovery.

Skills and Experience

To be considered for this role, you must: •    Be a Registered Nurse with current NMC registration •    Have experience in acute or surgical settings—though motivated nurses eager to learn and develop in a specialist environment are also encouraged to apply •    Demonstrate strong clinical judgement and critical thinking, with the ability to escalate concerns appropriately •    Communicate clearly and effectively with patients, families and colleagues, even during busy or pressured situations •    Bring a positive, reflective attitude and a commitment to ongoing professional development within our forward thinking surgical service