What is Endoscopy nursing? 

Endoscopy nurses provide care and support to patients undergoing endoscopic procedures. They are responsible for ensuring patients are comfortable, providing assistance, and monitoring patients throughout their procedures.

The role of Endoscopy Nurses

Endoscopy Nurses work closely with gastroenterologists and the wider healthcare team. They prepare patients for endoscopic examinations, administer sedation if required, and monitor patients' vital signs during the procedure. 

Some of their duties include:

• Assessing and evaluating patients before procedures to ensure they are suitable candidates for endoscopy. This includes reviewing patients' medical history, allergies, and current medications, as well as addressing any potential risks or patient concerns. 
• Preparing the endoscopy suite and equipment, ensuring everything is clean and sterile. Assisting with patient positioning and ensure their comfort during the procedure.
• Adhering to infection control protocols and maintaining a sterile environment throughout the procedure, ensuring proper disinfection and sterilisation of endoscopes and related instruments.
• Continuously monitoring patients' vital signs, such as blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen saturation. Monitoring the patients' level of consciousness, response to sedation, and overall well-being during the procedure.
• Administering sedatives and medications as directed by the doctor, and monitoring the patient's response to medications, reporting any adverse reactions.
• Handing instruments and equipment to the doctor during the endoscopy and maintaining clear communication with the team and other during the procedure.
• Providing post-procedure care instructions to the patient and their family members, and addressing any questions or concerns the patient may have regarding the procedure and recovery.
• Maintaining accurate and thorough patient records, detailing medications used, and any complications or adverse reactions.
• Monitoring the patient's recovery in the recovery area, ensuring they are stable and comfortable. Assessing for any immediate post-procedure complications.
• Assisting with the cleaning and maintenance of endoscopy equipment, including endoscopes and associated devices.
• Staying updated on the latest advancements in endoscopy and nursing practices through ongoing education and training.

 Qualifications for endoscopy nursing 

To become an Endoscopy Nurse in the UK, you need a nursing degree from an NMC-approved university programme. Once you've completed your degree course, you can register with the Nursing & Midwifery Council (NMC). Additional training will then give you the knowledge and skills needed to become a fully qualified Endoscopy Nurse. 

Types of endoscopy nursing jobs 

Endoscopy nursing offers various roles depending on the medical setting and types of endoscopic procedures:

•  Gastrointestinal Endoscopy Nurses: Assisting with upper gastrointestinal endoscopy and colonoscopy procedures to diagnose digestive system conditions.
•  Respiratory Endoscopy Nurses: Supporting patients undergoing bronchoscopy to diagnose respiratory conditions and obtain tissue samples for further evaluation.

 Typical salary for Endoscopy Nurses in the UK 

The salary of an Endoscopy Nurse in the UK can vary based on experience, location, and the healthcare facility. NHS Endoscopy Nurses will be paid in line with the Agenda for Change (AfC) banding scale, which determines workers' salaries based on their level of experience and seniority. Endoscopy Nurses will typically start their career at Band 5, with the opportunity to increase their band with additional training and experience.

Explore the Flexibility of Locum Endoscopy Nurse Jobs 

For a more flexible and diverse working life, locum endoscopy nurse jobs might be the perfect career option for you. Unlike in permanent roles, locum work gives you the freedom and power to choose when and where you work. By taking on ad-hoc shifts with an agency like Your World Healthcare, you can maintain a thriving career whilst being able to live a more balanced life. Love to spend more time with the family, or dream of travelling the country? You have the freedom to do it all as a locum!

Your World - your partner in endoscopy nursing 

At Your World, we offer excellent endoscopy nursing jobs across NHS Trusts and private sector facilities throughout the UK. Our dedicated team of recruitment experts are on hand to help you find your ideal roles and shifts. Did you know that as a preferred supplier to the NHS, we get priority access to the best jobs in the industry? 

Join Your World and start browsing live vacancies today.