Locum Orthopaedic Surgery SHO

Job Overview

The Locum Orthopaedic Surgery SHO supports the trauma and orthopaedic team in the assessment, investigation, and management of patients with acute and chronic musculoskeletal conditions, including fractures, joint injuries, degenerative disease, and orthopaedic trauma. The role involves working closely with consultants, registrars, physiotherapy, nursing, and allied health professionals to ensure safe, high‑quality, patient‑centred orthopaedic care. This position is ideal for doctors seeking flexible locum work while gaining experience in a busy orthopaedic service.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in the assessment and clerking of patients attending orthopaedic clinics, fracture‑clinics, emergency admissions, and ward reviews.
• Support the management of patients with fractures, dislocations, soft‑tissue injuries, osteoarthritis, and other orthopaedic conditions.
• Participate in ward rounds, fracture‑linewith consultant and registrar‑led teams.
• Assist in and support orthopaedic theatres, including elective and trauma procedures, under supervision.
• Organise and review diagnostic investigations (X‑rays, CT, MRI, blood tests) and escalate abnormalities promptly.
• Keep accurate documentation, including admission notes, progress charts, and discharge summaries.
• Respond to orthopaedic emergencies and escalating complications.
• Support junior house officers and coordinate with multidisciplinary teams.
• Uphold infection control, patient‑safety, and clinical‑governance standards in the orthopaedic unit.

Requirements

• Medical degree recognised by the Irish Medical Council.
• IMC registration or eligibility for registration at SHO/NCHD level.
• Previous experience in orthopaedic surgery, trauma, or general surgery in an acute hospital setting.
• Basic understanding of common orthopaedic and trauma presentations.
• Strong clinical assessment and documentation skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast‑paced, high‑volume environment.
• Eligible to locum in Ireland (e.g., Irish/UK/EU passport or Stamp 4/1G).

Skills and Competencies

• Good clinical judgment and prioritisation skills.
• Comfort with basic ward‑based orthopaedic work and theatre support.
• Ability to manage multiple patients and respond to emergencies.
• Professional, adaptable, and reliable approach to locum work.
• Strong teamwork and communication skills.
• Commitment to patient safety, confidentiality, and continuous learning.

Working Conditions

• Shift‑based rota including days, evenings, nights, weekends, and on‑call duties.
• Busy orthopaedic and trauma service with exposure to emergency admissions, wards, theatres, and outpatient‑style reviews.
• May involve short‑notice or ad‑hoc cover depending on service needs.

Remuneration and Benefits

• Competitive locum hourly rates (typically in the €49–€71 range) depending on experience and hospital.
• Flexible scheduling to suit availability.
• Opportunity to gain valuable experience in trauma and elective orthopaedics.