Operating theatres
A best kept secret: celebrating the role of ODP
Despite playing a vital role in surgery and patient care, Operating Department Practitioners (ODPs) are still one of healthcare’s best-kept secrets. National ODP Day took place on Wednesday 14 May, this year, and provided an opportunity to celebrate the people behind the scenes who make surgery possible. Susan Preston, from the Association for Perioperative Practice (AfPP), shines a light on their vital work.
“The role of the ODP is the most rewarding job you’ve probably never heard of.” That line, first shared by Steve Burns, Professional Development and Education Lead at Harrogate District Hospital, stayed with me after a recent visit. In the lead-up to National ODP Day, I had heard that same powerful message echoed by so many ODPs who are passionate about their work and proud of the vital role they play. I had the opportunity to speak with ODPs, nurses, surgeons, and educators at The Walton Centre, the UK’s only specialist neurosciences Trust, in the suburb of Fazakerley in Liverpool, to learn more about the vital role of an ODP in the perioperative team. “ODPs are essential to the smooth running
of the operating theatre; they’re highly trained professionals who reduce the cognitive load on the surgeon, ease stress, and help facilitate the best possible outcomes,” said Mr Nick Carleton- Bland, Consultant Neurosurgeon at The Walton Centre.
Mr Neil Buxton, a fellow Consultant
Neurosurgeon at The Walton Centre, said: “We can’t do the job we do without ODPs.” “Words are not enough to describe how fantastic our ODPs are; they are simply the best,” said Dr. Vijay Sahitya, a Specialty Doctor at The Walton Centre. “Amazing, marvellous, a joy to work with, are some of the adjectives that come to my mind. They are truly our unsung heroes; superstars.” ODPs work across three core perioperative phases: anaesthetics, scrubs, and recovery. Those covering anaesthetics play a vital role in assisting the anaesthetist before and during the induction of anaesthesia. Their responsibilities include: l Preparing and checking anaesthetic equipment and medications.
l Assisting with patient positioning and monitoring.
l Supporting airway management (e.g. ventilation, intubation).
l Maintaining patient safety and comfort throughout induction.
l Anticipating the anaesthetist’s needs during the procedure.
They ensure that all anaesthetic processes run smoothly, safely, and efficiently. Scrub ODPs support the surgical team by: l Scrubbing in to maintain a sterile field. l Preparing surgical instruments and equipment.
l Assisting the surgeon during procedures (passing instruments, handling specimens).
l Counting instruments, swabs, and sharps before and after surgery.
l Ensuring all surgical equipment is used and disposed of correctly.
This role demands precision, concentration, and strong communication. After surgery, recovery ODPs work in recovery care for patients emerging from anaesthesia. Key tasks include: l Monitoring vital signs and level of consciousness.
l Managing airway and pain relief. l Identifying and responding to postoperative complications.
l Providing reassurance and comfort as the patient regains awareness.
l Ensuring safe handover to ward staff.
They are essential in ensuring patients recover safely and comfortably from surgery. ODPs are highly skilled, adaptable professionals who provide critical care at each stage of the perioperative journey, helping ensure patient safety, comfort, and positive outcomes throughout.
A closer look at the role of an ODP at The Walton Centre, Liverpool Working as an Operating Department Practitioner (ODP) at The Walton Centre; the UK’s only specialist neuroscience Trust, is more than just a job. It’s a vocation. Every day is different, every patient is unique, and every moment counts. What shines through is that the theatre team at The Walton Centre shares a strong bond, built on trust, support, and teamwork. Their
June 2025 I
www.clinicalservicesjournal.com 59
Stephan Morrosch -
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