Course summary

Operating Department Practitioners (ODPs) provide skilled and holistic care and support to patients at all stages of an operation, from anaesthetics, throughout surgery and into recovery. They play a critical role in the hospital’s ability to carry out surgery. It is a varied role, encompassing patient care, teamwork and attention to detail. ODPs work as part of the surgery team and link this team to other teams and departments in the hospital. They provide a vital role in managing the preparation of operating theatres, such as preparing drugs, instruments, devices and equipment for anaesthesia and surgery, including microscopes, endoscopes and lasers. During operations they are responsible for providing instruments and materials to the surgeon. They are also responsible for treating patients while they recover from anaesthesia or surgery until they can be discharged home or back to a ward. The course follows a spiral design based around four 'Pillars of Practice' to help you develop the knowledge, skills, understanding and confidence required to be eligible to apply to the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) to become a registered Operating Department Pratitioner:

• Clinical Practice (anaesthetics, surgery and post-anaesthetic care)

• Facilitation of Learning (of self and others)

• Leadership

• Evidence, Research and Development