scrub/scout theatre nurse

Job Title

Scrub / Scout Theatre Nurse

Department

Operating Theatre / Perioperative Services

Reports To

Theatre Nurse Unit Manager or Clinical Nurse Manager - Operating Theatres

Purpose of Role

To deliver safe, efficient, and patient-centred care in the operating theatre environment. This role supports the surgical and anaesthetic teams by performing both
scrub (sterile)
and
scout (non-sterile)
responsibilities, ensuring theatre operations run smoothly and effectively.

Key Duties & Responsibilities

Scrub Role

• Prepare and maintain a sterile surgical field.
• Assist the surgical team by passing instruments, sutures, and consumables.
• Anticipate the needs of the procedure and the surgical team.
• Accurately complete surgical counts (sponges, needles, instruments) before, during, and after procedures.
• Ensure strict adherence to aseptic technique throughout the procedure.

Scout (Circulating / Non‑Sterile) Role

• Prepare the operating theatre and required surgical equipment in advance.
• Ensure all surgical trays, instruments, implants, and consumables are available, sterile, and functional.
• Support the scrub practitioner by managing supplies, assisting with lighting/equipment adjustments, and obtaining additional items.
• Assist with cleaning, restocking, and decontamination post-procedure.

Other Responsibilities

• Prepare patients for surgery, including confirming identity, consent, allergies, and fasting status; ensure all safety protocols are followed (e.g. surgical "time-out").
• Accurately document surgical activity, instrument counts, and any clinical variations or incidents.
• Comply with infection control, occupational health and safety, and theatre protocols.
• Contribute to quality improvement and risk management activities, including audits and reporting.
• Support and mentor less experienced team members, students, and new staff.
• Collaborate effectively with the wider perioperative team, including surgeons, anaesthetists, anaesthetic practitioners, theatre assistants, and recovery personnel.
• Maintain flexibility to work across different surgical specialties as required.

Qualifications & Skills

Essential

• Registered Nurse (or equivalent) with current registration (e.g. AHPRA or other relevant authority)
• Recent experience in a perioperative setting, including scrub and/or scout roles (ideally 2-3 years or more)
• Proficient in sterile technique, use of surgical instruments, and understanding of theatre workflows
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to work effectively in high-pressure, fast-paced clinical settings
• High attention to detail and proactive problem-solving skills

Desirable

• Postgraduate qualification in perioperative nursing or a related specialty
• Experience working across a range of surgical specialties (e.g. orthopaedics, general, plastics, urology)
• Experience in a supervisory, mentoring, or leadership capacity
• Familiarity with complex or emergency surgical procedures

Desired Skills and Experience
Registered Nurse (RN) with current AHPRA registration (or equivalent)

Minimum 2-3 years experience in a perioperative setting (scrub and/or scout roles)

Proficient in sterile technique and surgical instrumentation across multiple specialties

Strong understanding of infection control, OH&S, and theatre protocols

Confident working in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment

Excellent teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills

Ability to anticipate surgical needs and ensure seamless workflow

Experience with instrument checks, counts, and documentation

Commitment to patient safety, clinical excellence, and continuous improvement

Our Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

At Drake, we are committed to fostering diversity, inclusion, and equity. While our journey is ongoing, our shared goal is to create an environment where every individual is respected and valued. We are a community that recognises the strength of diversity.

Right to Work

The above position is open only to applicants who have a current right to work in Australia. Applicants who do not have a current right to work In Australia will unfortunately not be considered and are respectfully asked not to apply.