Rakhee, Senior ODP Neurosurgery, Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust

I worked was a ward clerk and then went into recruitment for the Trust and realised that I wanted the job I was trying to get for other candidates. I wanted to progress in a career which I needed to think outside the box. So I quit my job and went back to university for a second time at 27. Being an ODP means we are skilled in many different areas. Its a life long skill.

I am a senior ODP in neurosurgery theatres. I am responsible for running theatre lists, ensuring theatre efficiency, taking care of staff and looking after patients to the best of my ability.

The best part of being an ODP is that I am multi-skilled. Even though I am currently working in scrub, I’ll never forget how to help if there was an airway issue.

We are an ever-evolving profession. Previously nobody knew who we were, but now due to so many fantastic qualified staff we are making ourselves known which means we have so many opportunities to progress.

If you want a job that involves caring for patients and more, then become an ODP.