Operating Department Practitioner, BSc Hons (Degree Apprenticeship)

Program Overview

The University of Greenwich's BSc Hons Operating Department Practitioner Apprenticeship is a 3-5 year part-time degree program that combines academic study with clinical placements. The program prepares students to provide high-quality care to patients undergoing surgery and includes an optional Surgical First Assistant Skills endorsement. Graduates are eligible to register with the HCPC as registered Operating Department Practitioners and pursue careers in operating department settings.

Program Outline

Operating Department Practitioner, BSc Hons (Degree Apprenticeship) - University of Greenwich

Degree Overview:

This BSc Hons Operating Department Practitioner Apprenticeship is designed to prepare students to provide high-quality care to patients undergoing surgery. The program combines academic study with clinical practice, allowing students to develop the skills necessary to care for patients in the operating department.

Objectives:

• To equip students with the knowledge and skills to provide high standards of care to patients undergoing surgery.
• To develop students' ability to work effectively as part of a team of highly skilled surgeons, anaesthetists, and nurses in an Operating Department.
• To prepare students for registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) as a registered Operating Department Practitioner.

Outline:

Structure:

• The program is a 3-5 year part-time degree apprenticeship.
• Students must be employed full-time (30 hours or more per week) in an appropriate healthcare setting.
• The program combines academic study with clinical placements.
• Some learners will have the opportunity to complete a Surgical First Assistant Skills endorsement.

Course Schedule:

Full-time:

• Year 1:
• Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology (30 credits)
• Technology to Support Patient Care Within the Operating Theatre Department (30 credits)
• Introduction to Operating Department Practice (30 credits)
• Academic Skills Development - Nursing Associates and Operating Department Practitioners (30 credits)
• Year 2:
• Pathophysiology: Illness and its impact upon individuals (15 credits)
• Enhancing Operating Department Practice (30 credits)
• Care of the Emergency Surgical Patient (30 credits)
• Medicines Management (15 credits)
• Understanding Research in Evidence Based Practice (30 credits)
• Year 3:
• Advancing Operating Department Practice (Apprentice EPA) (30 credits)
• Role Transition to Registered Operating Department Practitioner (30 credits)
• Exploring Evidence for Professional Practice (30 credits)
• Surgical First Assistant Skills (30 credits) (Optional)
• Surgical First Assistant Skills (Endorsement) (30 credits) (Optional)

Part-time:

• Year 1:
• Introduction to Operating Department Practice (30 credits)
• Academic Skills Development - Nursing Associates and Operating Department Practitioners (30 credits)
• Year 2:
• Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology (30 credits)
• Technology to Support Patient Care Within the Operating Theatre Department (30 credits)
• Year 3:
• Pathophysiology: Illness and its impact upon individuals (15 credits)
• Enhancing Operating Department Practice (30 credits)
• Medicines Management (15 credits)
• Year 4:
• Care of the Emergency Surgical Patient (30 credits)
• Understanding Research in Evidence Based Practice (30 credits)
• Year 5:
• Advancing Operating Department Practice (Apprentice EPA) (30 credits)
• Role Transition to Registered Operating Department Practitioner (30 credits)
• Exploring Evidence for Professional Practice (30 credits)
• Surgical First Assistant Skills (30 credits) (Optional)
• Technology to Support Patient Care Within the Operating Theatre Department: This module explores the various technologies used in the operating theatre, including surgical instruments, monitoring equipment, and imaging techniques.
• Introduction to Operating Department Practice: This module introduces students to the role of the Operating Department Practitioner, covering key concepts such as patient care, surgical procedures, and teamwork.
• Academic Skills Development - Nursing Associates and Operating Department Practitioners: This module focuses on developing essential academic skills, such as critical thinking, research, and communication, which are crucial for success in the program.
• Enhancing Operating Department Practice: This module builds upon the foundational knowledge gained in previous modules, focusing on advanced concepts and skills related to operating department practice.
• Care of the Emergency Surgical Patient: This module covers the specific needs of patients who require emergency surgery, including assessment, management, and ethical considerations.
• Medicines Management: This module explores the principles of safe and effective medicines management in the operating department, including administration, monitoring, and documentation.
• Understanding Research in Evidence Based Practice: This module introduces students to the principles of research and evidence-based practice, enabling them to critically evaluate research findings and apply them to their practice.
• Advancing Operating Department Practice (Apprentice EPA): This module focuses on the development of advanced clinical skills and knowledge, culminating in an assessment of the student's ability to practice independently.
• Role Transition to Registered Operating Department Practitioner: This module prepares students for the transition to registered practice, covering topics such as professional development, ethical considerations, and legal responsibilities.
• Exploring Evidence for Professional Practice: This module builds upon the principles of evidence-based practice, encouraging students to critically evaluate research findings and apply them to their practice.
• Surgical First Assistant Skills: This module provides students with the skills and knowledge necessary to assist surgeons during surgery, including instrument handling, tissue manipulation, and wound closure.
• Surgical First Assistant Skills (Endorsement): This module provides a more in-depth exploration of surgical first assisting skills, leading to a specialized endorsement upon completion.

Assessment:

• The program utilizes a variety of assessment methods, including:
• Written examinations
• Coursework assignments
• Practical assessments
• Clinical simulations
• Portfolio development
• End-of-program assessments

Teaching:

• The program is taught by a team of experienced experts, including:
• Senior academics
• Technical officers
• Practitioners with industry experience
• Trained postgraduate researchers
• Teaching methods include:
• Lectures
• Seminars
• Workshops
• Clinical placements
• Simulation-based learning
• The program utilizes a brand-new simulation suite, providing students with a safe and supported environment to practice their skills.

Careers:

• Graduates of the program are well-equipped to apply for registration with the HCPC as a registered Operating Department Practitioner.
• Potential career paths include:
• Operating Department Practitioner
• Surgical First Assistant
• Theatre Nurse
• Anaesthetic Practitioner
• Students are required to complete the Care Certificate prior to commencing the program.
• Occupational health and DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) checks are carried out by the employer.