It’s a theatre performance never advertised on billboards. Only a few ever get front-row views. And rarely does it get applause at the finish.
A human drama played out behind closed doors every day, it demands a cast of well-rehearsed performers, as well as specialist sets, lighting and, yes, sometimes music.
In many ways the operating theatre is just like its dramatic namesake, although without the sprinkling of stardust (health and safety, you see!).
Both require staff who know their cues, stars who relish the spotlight and a huge backstage crew.
These roles get regular name checks on s1jobs. Surgeons usually have top billing in any operating theatre production – it’s a role that comes after years of training and many more as an understudy.
Ear, nose and throat (ENT), orthopaedics, paediatrics, plastic surgery and trauma are just some of the areas in which surgeons can work.
The hours are long, the pressure immense, responsibilities huge but the rewards are phenomenal, both in terms of job satisfaction and salaries well into the £100,000 bracket.
Anaesthetists usually take second billing, working with the surgeon to manage pain relief and a patient’s condition during procedures.
They have big responsibilities that demand attention to detail and calmness under pressure. The intense training and daily duties are rewarded with salaries upwards of £75,000.
Theatre nurses, sometimes called scrub nurses, provide ancillary support. They prepare the medical equipment, hand the surgeon the right tools at the right time, and monitor patients before and after a procedure.
Highly organised with great attention to detail and good interpersonal skills, theatre nurses can command salaries in the £26-35,000 bracket.
Theatre support workers are an integral part of the team, aiding the surgical staff, reassuring patients who naturally might be anxious.
They prepare patients for anaesthetic, clean and tidy theatre areas after surgery, do stock checks and dispose of waste. Theatre support workers usually have experience of areas of healthcare and most will have worked as a healthcare assistant or other clinical support role.
Salaries in this area of theatre work are in the region of £16,000.
Just like in any theatrical production, operating theatre staff rely hugely on each other for a successful outcome. It’s never ever going to be a one-person show but a team effort of expertise and professionalism.
Theatre staff won’t get to see their name in lights but they know when they’ve put on a great performance!
For a Medical career with star quality check out the vacancies on s1jobs.com