Operating Department Practitioner Degree Apprenticeship - Torquay - ref. g00751215
Job overview
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.
See Job Description for further details on the role.
Working for our organisation
Why Work With Us
We are a professional, caring, dynamic, dedicated and welcoming team performing procedures encompassing multiple specialties, which include both inpatient and day surgery. Working in operating theatres is all about teamwork, we work with a multidisciplinary team such as surgeons, anaesthetists, nurses, ODPs, assistant practitioners and healthcare assistants.We also have a varied group of students/ learners and strive to give all our students the best opportunity. The practice educators in the department are responsible to ensure you have the best opportunities to achieve both your competencies and competence in your role.
Detailed job description and main 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 patient’s vital signs. Monitor airway, breathing & circulation
- Maintain the patient’s airway, identifying and responding to changes in the patient’s 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
Please see attached job description for more details.
Person specification
Qualifications and training
Essential criteria- 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
Essential criteria- Health and social care experience
- Experience in operating theatres
Specific Skills
Essential criteria- 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
You will be joining the organisation at an exciting time. As the first fully integrated care organisation in England, we are working to improve the way we deliver safe, high-quality health and social care. We have a positive and vibrant working atmosphere, we are proud of our investment in our staff both in terms of developing potential career skills and valuing people.
If you provide support to a family member or friend with health or care needs, we aim to be a Carer-friendly employer. We have a ‘Staff Carers’ policy which includes flexible working where possible and a Carer’s Passport scheme that links you into support and discounts.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION- We reserve the right to close vacancies early if we receive a high volume of applications. Please apply promptly
- Please read the job description and tailor your application to reflect the role
- Correspondence will be via Trac, text and email. Please check your email and Trac account regularly.
- Applicants with no previous NHS experience will ordinarily be appointed to the minimum of the band
- If you have not received an invitation to interview within 28 days of the closing date, please assume that your application has been unsuccessful on this occasion
- It is your responsibility to assist us in the timely receipt of appropriate references
If you require support you can obtain this from our Equality Business Forum which has representatives from all protected groups.