Job Description

Job Summary

We are seeking a professional and friendly Decontamination Nurse and occasional Receptionist to join our team. The Decontamination Nurse supports safe, high?quality dental care by ensuring all reusable dental instruments are cleaned, disinfected, sterilised, and stored in line with HTM 01?05 and practice policies. This role is central to maintaining excellent infection prevention and control standards across the practice. As a Receptionist you will be the first point of contact for visitors and callers, providing excellent customer service and ensuring smooth daily operations. This role offers an opportunity to develop strong communication skills and gain valuable experience in a dynamic environment.

Clinical Duties

Carry out the full decontamination cycle for dental instruments, including manual cleaning (where required), ultrasonic cleaning, washer-disinfector use, inspection, packaging, and sterilisation. Operate and maintain decontamination equipment such as ultrasonic baths, washer-disinfectors, and autoclaves. Ensure correct instrument tracking and maintain accurate sterilisation records. Monitor sterilisation cycles, conduct daily/weekly validation tests, and escalate any equipment faults promptly. Prepare instrument trays for clinical sessions and ensure timely turnaround to support smooth practice workflow. Maintain a clean, organised decontamination room in accordance with HTM 01?05 and CQC expectations.

Infection Prevention & Compliance

Follow all cross?infection control procedures, including PPE use, waste segregation, and environmental cleaning. Support the Lead Nurse or Infection Control Lead with audits, risk assessments, and compliance checks. Ensure all documentation is completed accurately, including logbooks, maintenance records, and audit data. Participate in incident reporting and contribute to continuous quality improvement.

Teamwork & Communication

Work closely with dentists, dental nurses, and reception teams to ensure efficient instrument flow. Communicate clearly about instrument availability, equipment issues, or delays. Contribute to a positive, supportive team environment.

Training & Development

Stay up to date with changes in HTM 01?05, infection control guidance, and best practice. Participate in mandatory training and continuing professional development.

Skills & Competencies

Strong understanding of dental cross?infection control and HTM 01?05. Excellent attention to detail and ability to follow strict protocols. Confidence in using decontamination equipment and completing validation checks. Good organisational skills and ability to manage instrument flow during busy clinical sessions. Effective communication and teamwork skills.
Job Type: Part-time

Pay: 7.55-12.21 per hour

Expected hours: 28 per week

Work Location: In person