Bridge Referrals, an innovative and independent small animal veterinary referral hospital in South Tyneside, seeks skilled veterinary referral nurses to join its surgical department.

This exciting opportunity encompasses all aspects of nursing care for surgical patients, requiring individuals who thrive in a busy hospital environment both independently and as part of a dynamic team.

The successful applicants will start by supporting the hospital's veterinary surgeons in soft tissue and orthopaedic procedures, ensuring high standards of care for every patient. Furthermore, the position has the potential for further career advancement, with the chance to focus your nursing career on soft tissue or orthopaedic surgery.

The ideal candidate should have experience working in a referral environment and be proficient in anaesthesia/theatre practice. You'll play a crucial role in maintaining the smooth flow of patients in their journey through the hospital from admission to discharge while providing exceptional patient care.

Success in this role requires the ability to thrive in a diverse, fast-paced environment, showcasing teamwork, initiative, and self-motivation. Excellent communication, interpersonal skills, and flexibility are indispensable.

The successful applicants must be able to commit to a rolling rota of 40 hours per week (38 hours, half-hour paid lunch per 10-hour shift), including weekend and bank holiday shifts. Training and support will be offered in areas that are unfamiliar.

Expected responsibilities include:

• Assisting with planning/preparation for surgical cases
• Monitoring anaesthesia and post-operative analgesia of surgical patients
• Supporting the triage system, diary management, and demonstrating excellent work ethic
• Attending team meetings, engaging in research and development, and taking responsibility for patient nursing from admission to discharge
• Supporting new nurses through induction and participating in CPD and in-house training

Skills, knowledge and experience:

• Proactive attitude and ability to work autonomously
• Capacity to adapt, keenness for learning, and excellent verbal and written communication skills
• High motivation to deliver outstanding service and ability to work efficiently under pressure
• Competent IT skills
• The ideal candidate would have experience in referral nursing, but this is not essential

In return, you will receive:

• 5 weeks' holiday plus bank holidays
• Paid birthday holiday
• Paid lunch break
• Generous sick and parental leave policies
• Employer contribution pension scheme
• CPD allowance + in-house training
• Generous staff discount scheme
• Cycle to work scheme
• RCVS and VDS fees paid
• Salary starting from £29,700, dependent on experience and qualifications

Bridge Referrals is proudly owned by local families in the area. The hospital values the picturesque countryside and diverse wildlife of the Northeast and places a high priority on sustainability to minimise impact on the local environment.

To apply for this position, please email your CV with a cover note to jobs@bridgereferrals.co.uk