Operating Department Practitioner Degree Apprenticeship

Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust

Operating Department Practitioners (ODPs) are registered healthcare professionals specialising in caring for people of all ages before, during & after surgery. ODPs therefore mainly work in operating departments. They work alongside other professionals and take a lead role in ensuring patient safety during each stage of a patient's perioperative journey.

On successful completion of the apprenticeship programme the Apprentice ODP will demonstrate that they meet the Health & Care Professions Council (2022) Standards of Proficiency for Operating Department Practitioners and are therefore eligible to apply for HCPC registration.

Main duties of the job

The Apprentice Operating Department Practitioner (ODP) will work towards becoming a Registered ODP by gaining a BSc (Hons) in Operating Department Practice. The Apprentice ODP will undertake an apprenticeship programme incorporating the Integrated Degree Apprenticeship Standards for Operating Department Practice. The apprenticeship programme combines academic and work-based learning; the Apprentice ODP will be fully supported to develop the skills required over the duration of the apprenticeship.

The Apprentice ODP will be based, as a paid employee, within Theatres at Torbay & South Devon Healthcare NHS Trust. They will also gain a wider perspective of healthcare delivery by undertaking additional clinical placements within other departments within the Trust where possible. They will work collaboratively to maintain patient safety and provide high standards of skilled care and support during each stage of the patient's journey through the operating theatre, including three distinct phases of Perioperative Care (anaesthesia, surgery and post anaesthetic care). The Apprentice ODP will ensure their activities are in accordance with the Association for Perioperative Practice (2017) Standards and Recommendations for Perioperative Practice.

Job responsibilities

Key Responsibilities include:

• Provide individualised care for patients prior to and throughout surgery or other procedures, including providing reassurance and support
• Use a wide range of clinical skills to provide a safe environment during the administration and maintenance of anaesthesia
• Assist anaesthesia with the use of medical devices & pharmacological (drugs) means
• Preparation of a wide range of specialist equipment and devices
• Position the patient to optimize surgical access, maintaining patient safety and dignity
• Maintain a sterile working area & safely & effectively perform aseptic technique (including scrubbing, gloving & gowning)
• Perform scrub skills under guidance and supervision of the mentor and in line with local Trust policies
• Selection, preparation and provision of the correct sterile surgical equipment to the surgeon and be accountable for all surgical instruments, equipment and swabs throughout the procedure
• Anticipate the requirements of the surgical team, responding appropriately and effectively
• Ensure the correct management of clinical specimens
• Observe and monitor the patients vital signs. Monitor airway, breathing & circulation
• Maintain the patients airway, identifying and responding to changes in the patients condition
• Monitor & record fluids balance & administer prescribed fluids appropriately
• Monitor the effects of drugs & take appropriate action is response to significant changes
• Accurately calculate & record prescribed drug dose
• Assess & monitor individuals pain status & administer prescribed pain relief appropriately
• Communicate effectively the handover the care of the patient

Person Specification

Qualifications and training

• Three GCSEs including Maths & English (Level C/4 or above)
• Care Certificate
• 112 UCAS points OR NVQ Level 3/ Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare associated subject

Knowledge and experience

• Health and social care experience
• Experience in operating theatres

Specific Skills

• Good organisational / time management skills
• Clear written and verbal communication at all levels
• Willingness to acquire new skills
• An understanding of health policy, national priority, and the relevant professional bodies agenda

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.

Employer name

Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust

£24,071 to £29,114 a year Year 1- Bottom B3, Year 2- Top B3, Year 3- Bottom B4.