How much does a locum theatre nurse earn in the UK?

Working with patients of all ages, theatre nurses are involved in each phase of a person's operation. Typically working in hospital operating theatres or recovery areas, it's their responsibility to provide high standards of care and support during each phase of a patient's perioperative care. If you work as a theatre nurse and are considering becoming a locum, you may want to know how much they earn. Let's answer the question, 'how much does a theatre nurse earn in the UK?' to find out.

Locum nurse jobs combine higher pay with greater flexibility

You can earn a significant hourly rate working as a locum theatre nurse while enjoying a greater amount of flexibility. The hourly rate will of course vary depending on your experience, and where and when you work. If you're willing to work unsociable hours and be adaptable, you're likely to earn the higher pay rates.

How much does a theatre nurse earn in the UK?

Working as a locum can give you a more flexible working life as a theatre nurse while still earning a good salary. If you're considering locum theatre nurse jobs, you can expect to earn up to £40 per hour. Those with more experience may be able to earn more with hourly rates varying across the country. It's easy to see why working as a locum theatre nurse is such a popular option, giving theatre nurses an attractive work/life balance and helping them better manage their other responsibilities.

What about locum theatre nurse jobs if you want to work longer?

Although working as a locum is often chosen as a flexible option that allows theatre nurses to combine their medical work with family responsibilities, travel or other interests, if you're willing to work over 40 hours, you can use locum work to earn a very high salary. These kinds of roles may be suitable if you're in the early stages of your career, don't have any family responsibilities and are trying to save money for a specific purpose such as a house purchase.

Healthcare recruitment agencies can help early-career or more established professionals find UK theatre nurse jobs that meet their particular priorities and ambitions. As your priorities change, so too can the hours and types of shifts that you work.

What are the advantages of locum theatre nurse jobs?

It's not uncommon for people to start their theatre nurse careers as locums. This can allow them to work in different regions, try different settings and earn a good salary while building up their skills and experience. They will often work longer than average hours, shifting to a more flexible pattern after they've established themselves. This is ideal if you're looking to pay back student incurred debt and to save for a house purchase.

Locum theatre nurses will typically earn more per day than salaried theatre nurses. As a locum, you may well set yourself as under self-employed. The self-employed status has plenty of advantages. As a self-employed contractor, you're able to claim a range of expenses, such as your phone and internet bills, that can reduce your tax bill and increase your take-home pay.

Many theatre nurses enjoy the variety that being a locum can bring. You get to work in different environments, and with different client groups. You might, for instance, work in a busy city environment for a while, then spend some time working at a coastal practice or in a rural setting. You can lead a more mobile lifestyle if you choose, and wherever you want to go in the UK, you're likely to find locum work that meets your needs.

Seeing different ways of working can also be beneficial when it comes to professional development. You can see which approaches work and which are more successful. Professionals who have spent some time working as locum theatre nurses will have a broad range of front-line experience to draw upon. This, in turn, can make them more successful at their job. Many locums also enjoy not having to deal with the ongoing politics or bureaucracy that can sometimes be associated with permanent positions.

Another advantage of locum working is that it can lead to the ideal permanent position. Working sessions as a locum can give you an insight into whether or not a hospital might be a good place to work over the long term. If you find the ideal practice as a locum, you may then wish to commit to taking on a salaried position.

Are there any disadvantages?

Locum work isn't for everyone, and it does have some challenges. There may be extra paperwork involved and you will need to be self-motivated. Many people find that regularly changing their working environments can become onerous over time, at which point they may seek out a permanent settled position. If you're concerned that working as a locum theatre nurse might not be for you, it makes sense to talk to a nurse locum agency. Specialist recruitment agencies, such as Globe Locums can advise on the pros and cons of moving into locumming.

Further advice and support

Healthcare recruitment agencies are an excellent source of support and advice when it comes to the practicalities of locum theatre nurse jobs. At Globe Locums, we're experienced at finding the perfect position for self-motivated and ambitious candidates. Whether you're interested in a short or long term contract, we can help. If you have any questions, are interested in applying for locum theatre nurse jobs or would simply like to find out more, we'd be pleased to hear from you. If you would like more advice on how much does a locum theatre nurse earn in the UK, call +44 (0)20 7229 2620 or contact us online today.