Job Responsibilities
My job as a Clinical Nurse Specialist in the operating theatre
means that every day, I have students and junior staff to teach
and mentor, and I love it even though it tries my patience
sometimes.
There is a huge amount to learn in Theatre and I try very hard to
instill knowledge and practice that they need for the future.
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Job Requirements
There is little academic content in my work as such, most of it
consists of on the job teaching.
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Uppers
The great satisfaction that I get out of a successful case: a well looked after
patient, a happy surgeon, a smooth running theatre and students or juniors who
have enjoyed their experience and want to work with you again.
There is also an excellent, nationally known, 12 month course in Perioperatve
care, and many other courses, most available for free to hospital staff.
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Downers
The worst parts of my work are mostly (I think) due to being in
the public system, equipment and supplies are often limited, and
it takes a lot of juggling to get what you need to carry out your
workload.
The other downer is the shift work, and sometimes very long hours
(I have worked up to 17 hours in 1 shift, and its very tiring!).
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Lifestyle
The shift work can be a problem with your social life, but you meet so many
great people as part of the job, that it is worth it.
OR attire is provided and we have a social club who organise social events, xmas
parties and staff leaving teas.
There is no business travel as such, but we are entitled to paid leave for
conferences etc. (paid for by the hospital), and there is also ongoing education
every week, when the theatre lists are delayed so we may attend.
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Compensation
The basic salary is not huge (about AU$40,000), but with
shiftwork penalties and overtime this can raise it to over 50,000.
There is a free staff clinic, and access to any services the
hospital has to offer, such as physiotherapy, travel
immunizations and xray services for example.
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Advice to Jobseekers
If seekers look at any ads about medical/nursing appoinments,
there is always a need for Perioperative Nurses all around the
world. You could apply in any country and find well paying jobs.
There will always be the need for this profession and well
trained Nurses are much sought after.
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