About this role
Job summary
A Minor Operations Nurse works within a dermatology outpatient service, supporting and assisting with minor surgical procedures such as skin lesion removals and biopsies. The role is hands-on and procedure-focused, meaning patients are often assessed and treated within the same appointment as part of a see and treat pathway.
In this setting, the nurse plays a vital role in preparing patients for procedures, maintaining a sterile environment, assisting clinicians during surgery, and providing post-procedure care. You'll also be responsible for accurate documentation and updating patient notes during clinics, ensuring all care is recorded in real time.
MOPS clinics are structured around procedure times, with appointments typically lasting 30 to 90 minutes depending on complexity, allowing flexibility for different types of treatments. You'll encounter a range of cases, including suspected skin cancers, biopsies, and general dermatology conditions.
Overall, its a fast-paced but rewarding role suited to nurses with dermatology and minor ops experience, who enjoy practical, patient-facing work and being directly involved in delivering clinical treatments.
Main duties of the job
Assist clinicians with minor surgical procedures (e.g. biopsies, excisions, lesion removals)Prepare patients for procedures, including clinical checks and consentMaintain a sterile environment and follow aseptic techniqueSupport during procedures by handling instruments and monitoring patientsProvide post-procedure care, including wound care and dressingsGive aftercare advice and patient educationManage clinic flow based on procedure appointment times (3090 minutes)Accurately update and maintain patient records during clinicsSupportsee and treat dermatology pathwaysWork closely within a multidisciplinary dermatology team
About us
Xyla are a leading provider of clinical and community healthcare services across the UK, recognised for their commitment to delivering high-quality, patient-centred care. Working in close collaboration with NHS trusts, Integrated Care Systems (ICS), and local authorities, Xyla supports the delivery of essential services that help improve patient outcomes while reducing pressure on frontline healthcare providers.
Their service offering spans a wide range of areas, including diagnostic services, specialist outpatient pathways, waiting list management, mental health support, and community-based care. By leveraging experienced clinical teams alongside innovative service models, Xyla is able to deliver flexible and scalable solutions tailored to the needs of each healthcare partner.
A key strength of Xyla lies in their ability to enhance patient access to care, particularly in addressing NHS backlogs and improving pathway efficiency. Their focus on early intervention, preventative care, and timely diagnosis supports better long-term health outcomes while helping to optimise system capacity.
Underpinned by robust clinical governance frameworks and a strong emphasis on quality, safety, and compliance, Xyla maintains high standards of care across all services. This, combined with a collaborative approach and a deep understanding of NHS priorities, positions them as a trusted partner in supporting the ongoing transformation and sustainability of healthcare services across the UK.
Job description Job responsibilities
Dermatology Nurse Minor Operations (MOPS)
Location: Lauriston Building, Edinburgh
Pay Rate: £413 per day (PAYE, inclusive of holiday pay)
Hours: 08:00 17:00
Contract: Ongoing (expected until March 2027)
The Opportunity
Were currently recruiting for an experienced Dermatology Nurse to support Minor Operations clinics within NHS Lothian. This is a great opportunity to join a well-established outpatient service delivering high-quality, efficient patient care in a fast-paced clinical environment.
Youll be working as part of a dedicated dermatology team, supporting see and treat clinics where patients are assessed and treated within the same visit.
Key Responsibilities
Assist with minor surgical dermatology procedures (e.g. biopsies, lesion removals, excisions)Prepare patients for procedures, including clinical checks and consentMaintain aseptic technique and infection control standardsSupport clinicians during procedures and monitor patient wellbeingDeliver post-procedure care, including wound care and dressingsProvide aftercare advice and patient educationAccurately update patient notes during clinic sessionsSupport dermatology pathways including 2-week wait, biopsies, and general casesClinic Structure
Procedure-based clinics with allocated appointment times:
30 minutes (standard)60 minutes (more complex cases)90 minutes (extended procedures)Structured clinic days with consistent workflow
Requirements
NMC Registered NurseDemonstrable experience in dermatology and minor ops clinicsStrong skills in:Wound careAseptic techniqueSurgical assistanceAbility to work in a fast-paced outpatient settingAdditional Information
PVG clearance requiredNo travel or accommodation expenses providedConsistent availability preferredOpportunity for long-term, ongoing workWhy Apply?
Competitive day rateLong-term contract with stabilityOpportunity to work within a high-demand dermatology serviceHands-on, procedure-focused nursing role
Person Specification
Experience Essential
Previous experience within Dermatology & Minor Ops/Skin Surgery
Qualifications Essential
Registered Nurse NMC reg
Desirable
Qualified in Phlebotomy
Disclosure and Barring Service Check This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.
UK Registration
Applicants must have current UK professional registration. For further information please see NHS Careers website (opens in a new window).
Employer details Employer name Xyla
Address Lauriston Building
Lauriston Place
Edinburgh
EH3 9EN
United Kingdom
Employer's website https://xylaservices.com/ (Opens in a new tab)