Amber Mckerlie

Currently employed within Theatre Services at Warwick Hospital while completing my Operating Department Practice apprenticeship at the University of Derby. I have experience as a circulator In theatres as I started as a clinical support worker before starting my apprenticeship.

I have developed extensive practical experience working within main theatres and day surgery and developing clinical competence across the anaesthetic, surgical and post-operative aspects of patient care.

Scrub Practice -

I have developed practical scrub experience across a wide range of surgical specialties, including:

• General surgery
• Gynaecology
• Urology
• Orthopaedics
• ENT
• Colorectal surgery
• Robotic surgery
• breast surgery
• Trauma/NCEPOD

My scrub experience includes preparing for surgical procedures, ensuring appropriate instruments and equipment are available, maintaining the sterile field and supporting the surgical team throughout procedures.

Executed clinical responsibilities within theatre, providing essential support to the surgical team.

• Provide safe, effective and compassionate perioperative care as part of the multidisciplinary theatre team.
• Assess and respond to individual patient needs throughout the perioperative journey, escalating concerns appropriately.
• Prepare operating theatres, equipment, instruments and consumables for planned surgical procedures.
• Maintain aseptic technique and contribute to infection prevention and control.
• Work within the sterile field and maintain awareness of potential breaks in asepsis.
• Develop knowledge of surgical procedures, instrumentation and equipment across multiple specialties.
• Anticipate the needs of the surgical team and communicate effectively with surgeons, anaesthetists, ODPs, nurses and support workers.
• Participate in surgical safety processes and maintain a consistent focus on patient safety.
• Work within the circulating role, supporting the scrub practitioner.
• Provide patient-centred care within the holding bay, ensuring patients are appropriately prepared and supported prior to surgery.
• Work within the anaesthetic room, supporting patients and working alongside the anaesthetic team.
• Maintain patient dignity, privacy and confidentiality throughout the perioperative pathway.
• Complete and maintain accurate clinical documentation in accordance with local policies.
• Work in accordance with Trust policies, procedures, professional standards and relevant legislation.
• Adapt effectively to changing clinical circumstances and competing demands within a busy theatre environment.
• Work calmly and professionally during emergency situations.
• Participate in on-call shifts and gain experience within emergency theatre environments.
• Develop clinical knowledge through evidence-based academic study and apply this learning to clinical practice.
• Recognise limitations in knowledge or competence and seek appropriate support, supervision and feedback.
• Actively engage with feedback to improve clinical practice and professional development.

Developing Clinical Skills -

I have undertaken training in:

• Peripheral cannulation
• Urinary catheterisation
• Venepuncture

I am currently completing the required clinical competencies for cannulation and catheterisation and working towards formal sign-off.

Assisted registered healthcare professionals in the delivery of safe, patient-centred care.

• Supported patients with rehabilitation and recovery.
• Worked within a specialist rehabilitation environment caring for patients with acquired brain injuries.
• Welcomed and prepared patients for their care and treatment.
• Provided personal care while maintaining dignity, privacy and respect.
• Worked effectively as part of a multidisciplinary healthcare team.
• Enhanced communication skills through collaboration with patients with varied physical, cognitive and communication challenges alongside SALT.
• Emphasised individualised care by adapting communication strategies to effectively meet diverse patient needs.
• Enhanced skills in accurately taking and recording patient observations. in taking patients' observations and recording them accurately on SEND.
• Completed training in Basic Life Support, Hospital Life Support, First Aid and Manual Handling.
• Undertook venepuncture training.
• Completed the Care Certificate.

Established a solid foundation in NHS practice, focusing on patient-centred care, effective communication, teamwork and professional responsibility before advancing into perioperative practice.

i had a particular interest In working with patients with brain injuries or patients that had suffered from stokes, as my Grandad was a patient at CERU after suffering from a stroke.

Progressed from waitress to head barista to supervisor at Fat Birds Cafe, enhancing customer service and team efficiency.

• Supervised colleagues and coordinated shift management to maintain high service standards.
• Executed delivery checks, managed staff, and oversaw kitchen operations to ensure seamless daily operations.
• Worked effectively within a busy and demanding team environment.
• Developed leadership and delegation skills through supervisory responsibilities.
• Developed strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Monitored inventory levels and ordered stock to prevent shortages.
• Prioritised competing demands during busy periods.
• Worked calmly and professionally when dealing with challenging situations.
• Worked independently while recognising when support was required.
• Supported colleagues and contributed to effective teamwork.

Delivered effective customer service in a fast-paced retail environment, ensuring customer satisfaction.

• Engaged professionally with customers and colleagues to foster a positive shopping experience.
• Handled challenging customer interactions with composure.
• Developed confidence and communication skills while serving customers as a Sales Assistant at Sports Direct.
• Developed confidence, communication and problem-solving skills.
• Worked effectively both independently and as part of a team.