What is an operating department practitioner (ODP)?
ODPs (Operating Department Practitioners) are Allied Health Professionals (AHPs) who are based in operating theatres.
They are one of the key Allied Health Professionals (AHPs) in the NHS.
They work across three main areas within an operating theatre: anaesthetics, surgery and recovery. We will describe what ODPs’ do.
Anaesthetic
- Help and support patients before surgery
- Prepare a wide range of specialist equipment and drugs, including anaesthetic machines, intravenous equipment and devices that safely secure the patient’s airway during anaesthesia
Surgery
- Prepare instruments and equipment for surgery, including microscopes, lasers and endoscopes
- Provide the correct surgical instruments and materials to the surgeon
- Responsible for all surgical instruments, equipment and swabs during the operation
- Act as a link between the surgical team and other parts of the theatre and hospital
Recovery
- Support and monitor the patient on their arrival into the recovery area (‘recovery’)
- Provide appropriate treatment until they have recovered from the effects of the anaesthesia and/or surgery
- Assess the patient so they can be discharged back to a ward
Training
To become an ODP, you need to study for a two year diploma or three year degree in operating department practice at university.
Teaching – especially medical students
Its good to spend time with them, not just the surgeon and anaesthetist. You can learn a lot from them.
Summary
We have described what is an operating department practitioner (ODP). We hope you understand the role better now.
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