Meet Paddy, theatre nurse

11 May 2016

Paddy Doyle, a theatre nurse at the Royal Free Hospital, had considered joining the Metropolitan Police before deciding to pursue a career in nursing.

“I came to the Royal Free Hospital in 2012 straight after graduating from my nursing degree at the National University of Ireland in Galway. I knew I wanted to work in the UK because there are more opportunities than in Ireland, and my wife’s family suggested I try here as they live nearby. I did some research and found out about all the different specialties they have at the Royal Free and so contacted the trust directly to arrange an interview.

“As a scrub nurse it’s my job to prepare the theatre for whatever procedures are planned for that day. That means making sure all the instruments are organised and the surgeons have the equipment they need.

“Working in theatres is not for the faint hearted. You’re always busy and constantly running around, but you’re surrounded by people who are hugely passionate about what they do and who are always ready to support you.

“Funnily enough I didn’t enjoy this area during my training, and actually swore I would never go into theatres, but I thankfully I gave it a go and now I really enjoy it. It’s always interesting; you don’t have a chance to be bored.

“I started in plastics, but after a few years I was selected to do a post-graduate theatre course, which gave me a greater depth of knowledge and allowed me to move into acute theatres.

“That’s one of the best things about working at the Royal Free London – the opportunities for accelerated career progression. As well as the training, you’re working in an organisation with eight or nine different specialties so there are loads of opportunities to gain experience and move forward in your career.”