Locum Neurosurgery SHO

Job Overview

The Locum Neurosurgery SHO supports the neurosurgical team in the assessment, investigation, and ongoing care of patients with neurosurgical and spinal conditions. The role involves close collaboration with consultants, registrars, nursing staff, and allied health professionals to deliver safe, timely, and patient‑centred neurosurgical care. This position is well suited to doctors seeking flexible locum work while gaining experience in a high‑acuity neurosurgical service.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in the assessment and clerk­ing of patients admitted under neurosurgery (e.g., brain injury, spinal injury, tumours, hydrocephalus, cerebrovascular disease, and spinal degenerative conditions).
• Perform daily ward reviews, monitor neurological observations, and flag early deterioration.
• Assist consultants and registrars with procedures, scans, and operating‑theatre support as required.
• Help organise and follow up investigations such as CT, MRI, and laboratory tests.
• Participate in emergency neurosurgical cover and respond to urgent referrals from ED, ICU, and other departments.
• Maintain accurate documentation, including admission notes, progress charts, and discharge summaries.
• Escalate unwell patients promptly and ensure continuity of care between shifts.
• Supervise and support more junior house officers and coordinate with nursing and multidisciplinary teams.
• Uphold infection control, patient‑safety protocols, and clinical‑governance standards within the neurosurgical unit.

Requirements

• Medical degree recognised by the Irish Medical Council.
• IMC registration or eligibility for registration (NCHD/SHO level).
• Previous experience at SHO level in surgery, neurosurgery, medicine, or acute hospital medicine.
• Good understanding of basic neuroanatomy and common neurosurgical and neurological emergencies.
• Strong clinical assessment and documentation skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a high‑pressure, fast‑paced environment.
• Eligibility to work in Ireland (e.g., Irish/UK/EU passport or appropriate visa/permit).

Skills and Competencies

• Solid clinical judgment and prioritisation skills.
• Comfort with basic ward and theatre‑related neurosurgical work.
• Ability to manage multiple patients and respond to emergencies.
• Professional, reliable, and adaptable approach to locum work.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• Commitment to patient safety, confidentiality, and continuous learning.

Working Conditions

• Shift‑based rota that may include days, evenings, nights, weekends, and on‑call duties.
• Busy neurosurgical unit with exposure to emergency and elective cases, wards, and theatre.
• Fast‑paced environment with frequent handovers and urgent clinical situations.

Remuneration and Benefits

• Competitive locum hourly rates, in line with standard SHO‑level pay scales and hospital‑specific enhancements.
• Flexible scheduling to suit availability.
• Opportunity to gain valuable experience in a specialist neurosurgical service.