12/11/2026
When Carmel McElvogue from Ballygawley saw a vacancy for a role in HSDU, she had one question: “What on earth is HSDU?”
Today, just 18 months later, she can’t imagine working anywhere else.
After spending more than 21 years as a dental nurse in private practice, Carmel took a leap into the unknown and joined the Western Trust’s Hospital Sterile Services and Decontamination Unit (HSDU) at Omagh Hospital and Primary Care Complex. It was a decision that has given her a new career, new qualifications, greater flexibility and a renewed sense of purpose.
Now Carmel is encouraging others to do the same.
Most people are familiar with doctors, nurses and operating theatres. Few realise there is a highly skilled team working behind the scenes whose work makes thousands of procedures possible every year.
Every surgical instrument used in theatres and clinical areas must be cleaned, inspected, decontaminated, sterilised, tracked and prepared before it can be used safely on a patient. That’s where HSDU comes in. Carmel explains,
“Our role is absolutely vital. Patients may never meet us, but without HSDU, surgeries couldn’t happen. Every instrument that reaches a theatre has passed through our safe hands first.”
The service supports a huge range of departments, from operating theatres and endoscopy to podiatry and dental services.
“Before I started here, I had no idea how many services depended on HSDU. It was a real eye-opener.”
Now in her early 50s, like many people, Carmel found herself looking for a fresh start when changes were taking place in the dental practice where she had worked for over two decades.
She wanted stability, career progression and the opportunity to continue learning. What she found exceeded her expectations.
“I took a chance on something completely different. I genuinely thought I’d probably stay in dentistry forever. But when I saw the HSDU post, something about it really appealed to me.”
Within 18 months she has progressed from a Band 2 role to a Band 3 position and completed a Level 3 Diploma in Decontamination in Healthcare.
“The opportunities have been incredible. The Trust supported me to gain qualifications and expand my skills. Every day I learn something new.”
One of the biggest misconceptions about HSDU is that it’s simply about washing equipment. Carmel is quick to challenge that.
“This is a highly skilled and technical role. We inspect instruments, assemble specialised surgical sets, operate sophisticated equipment and use tracking systems that allow us to follow instruments through every stage of the process. You never stop learning.”
The work requires attention to detail, teamwork, organisation and a commitment to patient safety.
“Everything we do has a direct impact on patient care. That’s something we’re all incredibly proud of.”
For Carmel, one of the biggest surprises has been the work-life balance. After years in a busy private practice, she appreciates the flexibility and support available within the Trust.
“The shift patterns suit family life much better and there are opportunities that just didn’t exist for me previously. If my son needs me, there is understanding and flexibility. That makes such a difference.”
She has also discovered something she didn’t expect: a workplace where she genuinely looks forward to coming in each day.
“The people are amazing. I didn’t know anyone when I started, but very quickly I felt part of the team. Everyone helps one another and there’s always someone willing to share their knowledge.”
For anyone considering a career change, starting out on their first job, returning to work, or looking for an opportunity to develop new skills, Carmel believes HSDU deserves much greater recognition.
One of the biggest myths, she says, is that you need a healthcare background to succeed.
“I think one of the biggest challenges is that many people simply don’t know these jobs exist. “But if you’re looking for job security, career progression, training opportunities, good colleagues and a role where you genuinely make a difference, this is a fantastic place to be.”
Carmel points out that HSDU offers opportunities for people from all walks of life. While she brought experience from dentistry, many of her colleagues joined from completely different professions.
“We have people who came from healthcare, but we also have colleagues who worked in completely different industries before joining HSDU. One colleague spent years working as a hairdresser before making the move and is thriving in the role.”
She believes the career would be equally suitable for somebody leaving school or college and looking for their first step into healthcare.
“You don’t need to know everything on day one. The training is excellent and you’re supported every step of the way. If you’re willing to learn and work as part of a team, there are fantastic opportunities.”
For Carmel, another sign of the service’s appeal is the number of colleagues who have spent their entire careers within HSDU.
“We have staff here with more than 30 years’ service. To me, that says everything. People stay because they enjoy the work, they enjoy the team, and there are opportunities to grow and develop.”
The Western Trust’s HSDU service operates across Omagh Hospital and Primary Care Complex, Altnagelvin Hospital and South West Acute Hospital, providing essential support to a wide range of clinical services throughout the region.
“I came here thinking it would be a new job. What I actually found was a whole new career.”
Could HSDU Be Your Next Career Move?
HSDU careers offer:
- Full training and development opportunities
- Career progression pathways
- Recognised qualifications
- Flexible working arrangements
- A supportive team environment
- The chance to play a vital role in patient care
And as Carmel puts it:
“Patients may never see the work we do, but every day we help ensure they receive the care they need. That’s something worth being part of.”
Behind every operation, procedure and treatment, there is a team making it possible. That team could include you!
Why not take the first step in joining our Hospital Sterilisation and Disinfection Unit. Posts are available at South West Acute Hospital and Omagh Hospital and Primary Care Complex. Applications close 24 November