Surgical First Assistant

Job overview

Join Our Team at DBTH as a Surgical First Assistant

Are you a registered practitioner with a passion for surgery? Don’t miss the opportunity to join Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals (DBTH) as a Surgical First Assistant (SFA).

In this role, you will provide continuous, competent, and dedicated surgical assistance to the operating surgeon throughout procedures, working closely as an essential member of the surgical team under direct supervision.

Make a real impact in patient care and advance your surgical career with DBTH.

Main duties of the job

• Perform skin preparation and draping prior to surgery.
• Retract superficial tissue and cut superficial sutures.
• Handle tissue and manipulate organs for exposure and access.
• Use nerve and deep tissue retractors under surgeon supervision.
• Cut sutures and ligatures under supervision.
• Assist with haemostasis to maintain a clear operating field, including indirect diathermy application.
• Operate suction as directed by the surgeon.
• Manipulate camera for minimally invasive surgery.
• Apply dressings as required.
• Maintain knowledge of surgical instruments, equipment, and laparoscopic systems.
• Demonstrate extensive knowledge of anatomy, physiology, aseptic technique, and infection control.
• Gown and glove using open or closed techniques.
• Comply with Trust policies, best practice guidelines, and legislation to deliver safe, evidence-based surgery within scope of practice.

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

Please see attached to the advert a job description and person specification for further details. Please ensure you read this document carefully.  Please note, if your application is successful you will be required to present original certificates of qualifications that are listed in the person specification under essential.

Certificate of sponsorship

For individuals who may require sponsorship under the skilled worker or health & care visa route please use the link below to check your eligibility. Check if you need a UK visa - GOV.UK

Please note that from 9th April 2025, band 2 & 3 entry roles are no longer eligible for sponsorship.