Adriana, Student ODP

I decided to become an ODP to support patients during their perioperative journey as it can be a frightening experience

As a student, besides my university studies, I spend time in placement learning from mentors and developing the skills required to become a compassionate and competent professional.

I went back to study as a mature student. Although demanding, my academic studies underpin the care given to our patients.

The best thing about being an ODP is to be able to look after patients with a set of skills that safeguards the patient's safety. ODPs also work with a multi-professional team, which is an exciting part of the job.

It is a diverse job and every day is different. You work with great people and deliver excellent care to patients. How can you not love that idea?

Laura, Student ODP

I decided to choose a career in the ODP role because I wanted to work in an environment where no two days are the same. I like providing person-centred care to all surgical patients and advocating on their behalf to ensure they receive high-standard care.

As a trainee ODP, you get to explore all three perioperative phases which are Anaesthetics, Scrub and Recovery.

During the anaesthetic phase, you support and provide continuous assistance to the anaesthetist by preparing and checking a wide range of anaesthetic equipment such as the anaesthetic machine, monitoring, controlled and non-controlled drugs, airway equipment and intravenous equipment.

During the scrub phase, you work closely with the operating surgeon by maintaining a sterile operative field, preparing, and providing surgical instruments to ensure safe completion of surgical procedures and ensuring that all surgical instruments and equipment are all accounted for.

During the recovery phase, the role of the recovery practitioner is to assess the patient and monitor their vital signs post-surgery before they can be discharged to the ward.

I started the ODP course in September 2019 and now I am due to finish in July 2022. I have enjoyed training in different hospital trusts, gaining new skills and working in a multidisciplinary team with different healthcare professionals. As well as delivering individualised care to perioperative patients.

The most rewarding aspect of the ODP profession is providing one-on-one care. Each patient undergoing surgical treatment has different needs. Offering that one-to-one care allows the ODP to advocate efficiently and effectively on their behalf.

If you are passionate about providing high-quality care, working effectively in a multi-professional team, and working in an atmosphere where no two days are the same, the ODP role is for you because you can make a positive impact in the life of a patient.