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Operating department practitioner
Operating department practitioner
Operating department practitioner
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In the United Kingdom, operating department practitioners (ODPs) are allied healthcare professionals[1] who are involved in the planning and delivery of perioperative care.[2] As the name suggests, they are primarily employed in surgical operating departments, but they may also work directly within (or further their training to facilitate working within) a variety of acute clinical settings, including pre-hospital emergency care, emergency departments, intensive care units (ICUs), endoscopy suites, interventional radiology, cardiac catheter suites, obstetric theatres and reproductive medicine.

Operating department practitioners may be employed directly as, or may further their training to become, resuscitation officers, university lecturers, Hemostasis practitioners, education and development practitioners, departmental managers, perioperative team leaders, surgical care practitioners or quality improvement facilitators.[3]

Operating department practitioners make up one of the 14 allied health professions as defined by NHS England and are professionally autonomous practitioners who hold a protected title within the United Kingdom. As of 2004 the profession has been regulated by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC)[4] and thus falls under the remit of the chief allied health professions officer (CAHPO). The latest figures provided by the HCPC identifies that their are currently 17,325 ODPs registered (Aug 2025). ODPs are also supported and advised by their professional body, the College of Operating Department Practitioners (CODP). The college represents practitioners in various aspects of professional, educational and workplace matters, entering into its 75th year of existence in 2020.[5] ODPs work as members of multi-disciplinary teams that include anaesthetists, surgeons, nurses, radiographers, physician's assistant and theatre support workers (TSWs).[6] Since 2018, a "national operating department practitioner day" has been celebrated annually on 14 May, aiming to highlight their role within healthcare.[7]

Scope of practice

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Operating department practitioners are subject to specific standards of proficiency as laid out by the Health & Care Professions Council.[8] Alongside this, their professional role is also broadly defined by the College of Operating Department Practitioners (CODP)'s Scope of Practice document as published by the college in 2009. The college went on to publish a national curriculum document in 2018 which demonstrated the revised BSc (Hons) Operating Department Practice Curriculum.[9]

Operating department practitioners

[edit]

Operating department practitioners are highly skilled and dynamic healthcare professionals who provide skilled assistance to anaesthetists, administering anaesthesia in the operating departments within hospitals.

Their primary role is to function in tandem alongside their colleagues in order to establish a team which can effectively provide and maintain safe anaesthesia during surgery. This role requires the application of evidence-based practice and critical thinking alongside a wide range of professional and clinical abilities.

Prior to surgery, anaesthetic operating department practitioners will be tasked with completing a thorough and detailed diagnostic check of the anaesthetic machine, ensuring it has met its safety requirements and is fully operational. This includes the correct function and availability of essential medical gases and associated ventilatory equipment and breathing apparatus. The ODP is also responsible for ensuring that critical controlled and emergency medications are accessible prior to the induction of anaesthesia. They are also routinely charged as being custodians of the controlled drugs/scheduled medications held within their dedicated theatre, being assigned security keys which remain on their person throughout the day.

Some ODPs are responsible for conducting pre-operative assessments of the patient prior to their admission to the department. These assessments may vary and are institutionally dependant, but may include assessment of the mouth opening, protruding or unsecure dentition, range of movement in the cervical spine, current pregnancy status, fasting status, past medical history, known medication/food allergy status, history of communicable diseases or blood borne viruses, history of post-operative nausea and vomiting or individual/familial adverse reaction to anaesthetic agents. During an emergency clinical scenario where immediate treatment and response is required, the anaesthetist [doctor] may verbally request that the anaesthetic practitioner administer prescribed medications in response to the situation in hand.[11]

Perioperative practitioner

[edit]

ODPs are trained to work directly alongside the surgical team performing surgery. This role is often referred to as the 'scrub' role. When performing this role they will prepare sterile instruments, swabs, consumables and any other equipment required throughout the patient's operation. They work alongside the surgeon(s) within the sterile field.

The 'scrubbed' ODP is accountable for the swabs, instruments, and needles and consumables used throughout an operation, to ensure nothing is retained within the operative site. They are trained to do several checks before closure of the skin, with the attendant circulating team member verifying accuracy.

ODPs may also be the 'first assistant' to the surgeon assisting throughout the operation.

ODPs can also when required, assist in a circulating role during the surgical stage of a patient's care. In this role, they pass extra materials to the surgical practitioner, help position the patient on the operating table, and plan ahead to supply what the surgical team may need.[12] They may also set up extra equipment and act as a link between the surgical team and the rest of the hospital.

Postoperative practitioner

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When a patient's operation has been satisfactorily completed and is 'rousable' by the anaesthetist, the patient will then be taken to the recovery area, where a qualified professional will monitor the patient's condition, providing airway management if needed and recognise and record the patient's physiological signs. The ODP may administer treatments, such as the administration of prescribed drugs, enabling the patient to fully recover from the effects of anaesthesia. The ODP will liaise with other departments and staff, such as the ward staff, porters, and consultants, to safely discharge the patient back to the ward environment.

Training

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A Diploma of Higher Education (DipHE) is the minimum standard of training required to work as an ODP in the United Kingdom. Since 2024, an undergraduate degree BSc (Hons) in Operating Department Practice is the common standard for entry into the profession.[13] A BSC (Hons) requires three years. By 2010 there were 27 universities and colleges in the United Kingdom offering a qualification in operating department practice.[14]

Apprenticeships programmes have recently been introduced, as an alternative pathway for individuals to train as ODPs. Apprentices are required to complete an HCPC-approved BSc (Hons) degree in Operating Department Practice, whilst additionally meeting the required 15 standards set out in the Care Certificate within three months of commencement. The duration of ODP apprenticeship courses, typically takes four years to complete.[15]

Once qualified, ODPs can further their clinical and professional development by obtaining additional training or competencies related to their role. Courses are usually provided by their individual trusts or national providers such as universities or related colleges, RCOA. Additional skills including of but not limited to venepuncture, intravenous drug administration, peripheral venous cannulation, electrocardiography, peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC and midline) training and urinary catheterization.

As healthcare professionals, ODPs can also obtain certifications in cardiopulmonary resuscitation courses from the Resuscitation Council, including: immediate life support, paediatric immediate life support and advanced life support.[16]

Role expansion

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With localised training within NHS trusts, ODPs can expand on their roles outside the traditional theatre setting. This has seen operating department practitioners being utilised, in other specialist roles and critical care settings within the hospital environment.

Qualified and experienced ODPs can apply and undertake approved training by the Royal College of Surgeons. Progressing to surgical care practitioners, assisting in some surgical procedures under the supervision of a consultant surgeon.[17]

ODPs with a minimum of three years clinical experience with a degree level qualification, can apply for training to become an anaesthesia associate. Upon successful completion of an Anaesthesia Associate Postgraduate Diploma, practitioners are invited to become an affiliate of the Royal College of Anaesthetists.[18]

Titles

[edit]

As an entry-level or continuous band 5 practitioner, the operating department practitioner title is usually stylised as either RODP (registered operating department practitioner) or simply ODP. With progression to a band 6/7 position, SODP (senior operating department practitioner) is commonly utilised. Band 8 ODP roles typically use the title of principle (PODP), manager, or any managerial variant.

Historically, the title of operating department assistant (ODA) was frequently used. The early 1990s saw an advancement of education and training, as a reflection the adoption of a practitioner title became more appropriate. The ODA designation after this time fell out of common practice. However, some ODPs who trained before this transition continue to refer to themselves by their former title.

Areas of employment

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With advancements in training, demand for staffing and recognition for their skill sets, ODPs are increasingly being employed in other areas found within a clinical setting. This however is not just limited to the hospital setting, where traditionally the role has flourished. The clinical environments where the ODP can operate are including but not limited to; Theatre departments, mobile theatres, ITU, cardiac ITU, endoscopy, interventional radiology, obstetric theatres, reproductive medicine, mental health clinics (ECT), A&E departments, clinical training departments, cardiac and medical emergency teams, blood transfusion practitioners, hospital transfer teams, general practice practitioners, academic university staff, operational team management, research departments, cardiac catheter suites, pre-surgery clinics, armed forces, recovery units, vaccination and screening teams, vascular device teams and clinics (hospital-based).[citation needed]

Professional organizations

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The HCPC recognises two professional bodies for ODPs:[4]

  • The College of Operating Department Practitioners (CODP),[19] previously known as the Association of Operating Department Practitioners (AODP)

In late 2022, following a profession-wide consultation, members expressed a strong desire for the CODP to regain its independence, enabling it to have its own governance, membership model, and greater agility in pursuing professional development, education, and research initiatives. With UNISON's support during the transition, the CODP has now re-established itself as a standalone organisation once again, focusing on setting educational standards, promoting best clinical practice, and supporting ODPs' career progression, while maintaining a collaborative relationship with UNISON for trade union representation.[19]

ODPs are also eligible to apply for associate membership with the Difficult Airway Society.[21]

See also

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References

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Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Operating department practitioner

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from Grokipedia
An operating department practitioner (ODP) is an allied health professional who provides high standards of skilled care and support to patients during the perioperative phases of anaesthetic, surgery, and recovery in operating theatres. ODPs function as integral members of multidisciplinary teams, assisting anaesthetists, surgeons, and other healthcare staff to ensure patient safety, effective procedures, and optimal outcomes. Their scope of practice includes pre-operative assessments, intra-operative support such as instrument management and infection control, and post-operative monitoring to facilitate safe recovery and discharge. In the anaesthetic phase, ODPs prepare specialist equipment like anaesthetic machines and airway devices, administer drugs under supervision, and support patients during induction and maintenance of anaesthesia. During , they maintain sterile environments, provide instruments and materials to surgeons, and monitor patient to prevent complications. In recovery, ODPs assess physiological parameters, manage pain and , and evaluate patients for readiness to transfer to wards or home. These responsibilities emphasize , infection prevention, and emergency response, all aligned with standards that protect patient interests and promote multidisciplinary collaboration. To practice, ODPs must complete an approved three-year BSc (Hons) degree in operating department practice or an equivalent degree apprenticeship, incorporating clinical placements and academic study in anatomy, physiology, and surgical techniques. Upon qualification, registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) is mandatory, requiring adherence to standards of proficiency that ensure safe, ethical, and competent care across diverse patient populations. Career progression may involve advanced roles such as surgical care practitioners, management positions, or specialized areas like obstetrics or trauma, supported by ongoing professional development.

Overview

Definition

An operating department practitioner (ODP) is a registered allied specializing in the delivery of perioperative care to patients undergoing or other invasive procedures. Regulated by the (HCPC) in the , ODPs ensure and optimal outcomes by working within multidisciplinary teams in operating theatre environments. This role emphasizes , ethical decision-making, and the application of specialized knowledge in high-pressure clinical settings. The primary functions of an ODP include assisting with the administration of anesthesia, supporting surgical teams during procedures, and managing patient recovery to promote safety, comfort, and efficient care transitions. In the anaesthetic phase, ODPs prepare equipment, monitor vital signs, and support airway management; during surgery, they maintain sterile fields, handle instruments, and ensure accountability for surgical items; and in recovery, they assess post-operative needs, manage pain, and prepare patients for discharge to wards or other care areas. These responsibilities span all stages of perioperative care, with a focus on preventing complications and facilitating seamless team coordination. ODPs are distinct from related roles such as registered nurses or surgeons, as their expertise is concentrated exclusively on the operating department, providing technical and logistical support rather than broader or procedural execution. Unlike nurses, who may work across various departments, ODPs operate primarily within theatre suites, emphasizing specialized perioperative interventions. As of 2025, ODPs in the UK function as autonomous practitioners, exercising professional judgment across all patient age groups—from neonates to older adults—in theatre and related settings, while adhering to HCPC standards for safe, effective, and person-centered care. This scope enables them to adapt to diverse clinical needs, including emergency interventions and complex procedures, within a regulated framework that prioritizes continuous professional development.

Historical Context

The profession of the operating department practitioner (ODP) in the emerged in the mid-20th century within the (NHS), evolving from earlier roles such as operating theatre technicians and assistants who supported surgical procedures post-World War II. These technicians, often referred to as "theatre orderlies" or "surgerymen," handled equipment and basic assistance in operating rooms, with informal training beginning as early as 1947 at institutions like in . The Association of Operating Theatre Technicians (evolving into the Association of Operating Department Practitioners and later the College of Operating Department Practitioners, or CODP, originating from its 1945 founding), was established in 1945 to represent these workers, marking the initial push for professional recognition amid the expanding NHS established in 1948. Key developments in the association included renaming to the British Association of Operating Department Assistants in 1977 and the Association of Operating Department Practitioners in 1998, leading to the modern CODP structure. A key milestone in the profession's development occurred during the and with the establishment of formal through the National Training Scheme, prompted by the 1970 Lewin Report, which standardized education and introduced the title "Operating Department Assistant" (ODA). This report, commissioned by the Department of Health, recommended structured certification, leading to the approval of regional training centers and the first City & Guilds examinations in , which provided a nationally recognized qualification for theatre staff. By the late , these programs had trained thousands, shifting the role from unskilled labor to a specialized technical profession focused on perioperative support. In 1989, the CODP introduced the Diploma in Operating Department Practice, elevating educational standards to a higher education level and emphasizing competency-based training in anaesthesia, , and recovery. This diploma became the benchmark qualification, replacing schemes and aligning the profession with other allied health roles. The 2000s saw further expansion with statutory regulation; the Health Professions Council (HPC, now the or HCPC) assumed responsibility in 2003, with the ODP title legally protected from April 2004 under the Health Professions Order 2001, ensuring public safety through mandatory registration and standards. This regulation facilitated a transition to degree-level entry, fully mandated by the HCPC in 2021. Recent developments up to 2025 have integrated and master's-level programs, reflecting workforce demands post-COVID-19, where ODPs played expanded roles in critical care and intensive care units during the . The NHS Long Term Workforce Plan (2023) committed to increasing apprenticeship routes for allied health professionals, including ODPs, aiming for 22% of clinical training via apprenticeships by 2031/32 to address shortages. In 2025, the UK's first MSc in Operating Department Practice (pre-registration) commenced at in September, providing an accelerated postgraduate route for entry into the profession. These enhancements, including HCPC recognition of ODPs as allied health professionals in 2017, have broadened scope amid ongoing NHS reforms.

Scope of Practice

Perioperative Responsibilities

Operating department practitioners (ODPs) play a central in perioperative care, managing patient needs across the preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative phases to ensure safe and effective surgical outcomes. Their responsibilities emphasize patient-centered care, including assessment, preparation, monitoring, and support, while adhering to evidence-based protocols that minimize risks such as and complications. In the preoperative phase, ODPs conduct patient assessments to gather relevant health information, formulate individualized care plans, and verify consent and identity to prepare for . They also set up and check equipment, including anaesthetic machines and monitoring devices, ensuring all are functional and sterile to support a seamless transition to the operating . This phase focuses on optimizing patient comfort and safety, such as confirming site marking and addressing any immediate concerns like . During the intraoperative phase, ODPs assist anaesthetists with induction, , and ongoing monitoring of , including respiration, circulation, and physiological parameters, to maintain patient stability under anaesthesia. As of 2025, proposals are under consideration to extend ODPs' medicines responsibilities, enabling supply and administration using patient group directions alongside existing patient specific directions. They operate in dual roles: as scrub practitioners, maintaining the sterile field by preparing instruments, passing tools to surgeons, handling specimens, and performing counts of swabs, instruments, and sharps to prevent retained items; or as circulating practitioners, managing environment, documenting procedures, and coordinating supplies. These duties ensure efficient and immediate response to any adverse events. In the postoperative phase, ODPs monitor patients in recovery for vital signs, consciousness levels, and potential complications, providing interventions like airway support, pain management, and fluid administration according to clinical guidelines. They assess drug effects, manage adverse reactions, and facilitate safe handover to ward staff, including detailed documentation of care provided to support continuity. This phase prioritizes complication prevention through vigilant observation and patient reassurance to promote recovery. Throughout all phases, ODPs uphold by implementing protocols such as the , which includes pre-anaesthesia verification, time-out before incision, and sign-out after surgery to enhance and reduce errors. Infection control measures, including sterile technique and environmental management, are integral to their practice to prevent postoperative infections. ODPs collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams, including surgeons, anaesthetists, and nurses, through briefing, debriefing, and real-time communication to deliver coordinated care.

Specialized Practitioner Roles

Operating department practitioners (ODPs) can specialize as perioperative practitioners, taking on a broad role that spans all phases of care while often assuming responsibilities within theatre teams. These practitioners coordinate multidisciplinary efforts, ensuring seamless transitions between anaesthetic, surgical, and recovery stages, and may lead in implementing safety protocols such as surgical checklists. In contrast, postoperative practitioners focus primarily on recovery units, where they monitor patients emerging from anaesthesia, manage pain, and provide advanced interventions such as assisting with extubation and to prevent complications like respiratory distress. This specialization emphasizes vigilant observation of and rapid response to postoperative issues, differing from general ODP practice by requiring heightened expertise in recovery-specific protocols. ODPs also specialize in targeted clinical areas, such as , where they support procedures like caesarean sections by preparing specialized equipment and managing maternal and fetal monitoring; , involving age-appropriate care for children undergoing surgery with adaptations for smaller anatomies and behavioral needs; and trauma theatres, where they handle interventions for injuries, ensuring rapid setup for life-saving operations. These roles extend to suites, assisting in minimally invasive diagnostic and therapeutic procedures by maintaining sterile fields and supporting , and , where ODPs scrub and assist radiologists during image-guided interventions like stent placements, requiring proficiency in safety and procedural assistance. Emerging contexts in 2025 highlight ODPs' adaptability in surgery centers, where they facilitate same-day procedures in outpatient settings, focusing on efficient patient throughput and discharge planning to support rising demand for cost-effective care. Additionally, through the UK-Med Register, ODPs deploy to humanitarian emergencies, providing perioperative care in low-resource environments, including patient preparation, vital sign monitoring, and surgical support during disaster responses. Specialized ODP roles demand additional competencies beyond general practice, such as certification to manage cardiac arrests and complex resuscitations, along with specialized training in procedure-specific , , and team coordination to ensure , effective care in high-stakes environments.

Education and Training

Academic Programs

The primary qualification to become an operating department practitioner (ODP) in the is a with Honours (BSc Hons) in Operating Department Practice, which is approved by the (HCPC). This full-time program typically spans three academic years and integrates theoretical learning with extensive clinical experience, comprising approximately 50% of the total hours dedicated to supervised practice in perioperative settings. Students undertake placements across anaesthetic, surgical, and recovery phases in various specialties, ensuring they meet HCPC standards of proficiency for and effective practice. An alternative pathway is the Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship in Operating Department Practice, designed for individuals already employed in healthcare roles. This typically 3- to 4-year program (36-48 months), depending on the provider, combines on-the-job training with academic study at a university, leading to a BSc Hons qualification while allowing apprentices to earn a wage. Apprentices must be sponsored by an employer who provides the necessary clinical placements, and the program aligns with the same HCPC proficiencies as the traditional degree route. Entry requirements for both the BSc Hons and apprenticeship programs generally include five GCSEs at grades 4-9 (or A*-C), including English Language, Mathematics, and a science subject, alongside A-levels or equivalent qualifications such as a T-level in health or science, typically requiring 96-112 UCAS tariff points. Applicants must also demonstrate personal suitability through interviews, enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks, and occupational health assessments to ensure readiness for healthcare environments. The curriculum for these programs emphasizes foundational and applied sciences, including human anatomy and physiology across the lifespan, pharmacology (covering pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and safe drug administration), and perioperative care skills such as anaesthesia assistance, surgical support, and patient recovery management. Additional components focus on evidence-based practice, patient safety (including infection control and human factors), multidisciplinary communication, and simulation-based training to develop non-technical skills like teamwork and risk assessment. These elements prepare graduates to deliver high standards of care in dynamic operating environments while adhering to legal and ethical standards. For those seeking advanced expertise, the (MSc) in Operating Department Practice (pre-registration) became available in 2025 as the UK's first master's-level entry program. This two-year full-time course provides pre-registration training for entry into the profession, building on foundational knowledge with specialized modules in perioperative medicine, advanced practice, and research methods, enabling graduates to take on roles in , , or complex care settings. Post-registration MSc options are available separately for enhancing clinical or skills.

Registration and Continuing Development

In the , operating department practitioners (ODPs) must register with the (HCPC) to legally use the protected title, a requirement established in 2004 under the Health Professions Order 2001, which safeguards public safety by ensuring only qualified individuals practice in this role. The registration process involves completing an HCPC-approved educational programme, such as a in operating department practice or an integrated degree apprenticeship, followed by an assessment against the HCPC's standards of proficiency, which outline the knowledge, skills, and behaviors required for safe and effective practice. Upon successful application, including submission of qualifications and payment of fees, applicants are added to the HCPC Register, enabling legal practice. To maintain registration, ODPs are required to engage in continuing professional development (CPD) in accordance with the HCPC's standards, which emphasize identifying learning needs, participating in relevant activities to enhance competence, recording progress, and applying learning to improve patient care and professional practice. These activities may include clinical audits, attending courses or conferences, peer reviews, , and self-directed learning, with the focus on outcomes rather than a prescribed number of hours. The HCPC audits a sample of registrants' CPD profiles biennially to ensure compliance, promoting tailored to individual roles in perioperative care. Re-registration occurs every two years, during which ODPs must submit an online professional declaration confirming adherence to the standards of proficiency, conduct, performance, , and CPD, alongside payment of the renewal fee; failure to renew results in removal from . During this process, selected ODPs may undergo a CPD , requiring submission of a profile demonstrating how activities have supported and addressed any identified gaps. In 2025, the HCPC has continued to integrate emerging priorities into CPD expectations, with resources highlighting sustainable practices in health and care to reduce environmental impact and tools to enhance efficiency and patient outcomes in perioperative settings. These updates encourage ODPs to incorporate such topics into their CPD plans, aligning professional growth with broader healthcare goals like environmental responsibility and technological integration.

Professional Framework

Regulation and Standards

In the , the primary regulator for operating department practitioners (ODPs) is the (HCPC), which sets and enforces standards to ensure safe and effective practice. The HCPC's Standards of Proficiency for ODPs, effective from 1 September 2023, outline the threshold competencies required for registration and ongoing practice, emphasizing safe perioperative care across anaesthetic, surgical, and recovery phases. These standards require ODPs to practise autonomously within their scope, identify practice limits, and refer to others when necessary, while adhering to legal and ethical boundaries. Complementing these, the HCPC's Standards of Conduct, Performance and Ethics, revised and effective from 1 September 2024, promote inclusive practice by addressing biases and , with specific emphasis on fair treatment of all service users. The for ODPs is defined by the HCPC Standards of Proficiency, which limit competencies to perioperative roles such as preparing and administering medications under guidance, monitoring responses, and managing clinical emergencies, without independent prescribing authority. The Association for Perioperative Practice (AfPP) provides supplementary guidelines that reinforce this focus, detailing responsibilities in maintaining sterile fields, , and postoperative monitoring, while underscoring the supportive nature of the role alongside surgeons and anaesthetists. Ethical considerations are integral, as outlined in the HCPC Standards of Conduct; ODPs must uphold confidentiality by disclosing information only with or in the , obtain valid prior to interventions, and ensure equity by treating individuals fairly and challenging discriminatory practices. Accountability is maintained through HCPC mechanisms for addressing or impairment, where concerns can be reported directly to the regulator if unresolved at the level. Fitness-to-practise investigations assess current risks to public safety, potentially leading to hearings that impose conditions, suspensions, or removal from the register for issues like incompetence or ethical breaches. The title "Operating Department Practitioner" is legally protected under the Health Professions Order 2001, prohibiting unregistered use and subjecting violators to penalties to safeguard professional standards.

Professional Organizations

The Association for Perioperative Practice (AfPP) serves as the primary professional body in the for operating department practitioners (ODPs) and other theatre practitioners, dedicated to advancing perioperative care and . Founded in 1964 as the National Association of Theatre Nurses (NATN), it evolved to reflect the multidisciplinary nature of the field and rebranded to AfPP in 2005, now boasting over 6,000 members. AfPP develops evidence-based guidelines, publishes the Journal of Perioperative Practice, and organizes annual conferences to facilitate knowledge sharing and professional development. The College of Operating Department Practitioners (CODP) acts as the dedicated professional organization for ODPs, focusing on education standards, , and recognition of the ODP role within healthcare. Established in 1945 as the Association of Operating Theatre Technicians, it underwent several name changes and structural updates, adopting its current form in 2007 to emphasize ODP-specific needs. CODP promotes high standards in perioperative practice through curriculum development, position statements, and collaboration with educational institutions to ensure robust training pathways. Internationally, UK-based organizations like AfPP and CODP maintain ties with the International Federation of Perioperative Nurses (IFPN), which promotes global best practices in perioperative care and facilitates cross-border knowledge exchange among its member associations representing over 500,000 perioperative nurses worldwide. Through IFPN, ODPs access international standards, ethical guidelines, and collaborative initiatives that enhance local practices with global perspectives. These organizations offer members a range of services, including continuing professional development (CPD) resources such as online modules, webinars, and certification programs; policy lobbying efforts, notably advocating for mandatory degree-level entry for ODPs; and support for research through grants and publication opportunities. Membership provides access to professional indemnity insurance, networking events, and tools for career advancement, all aimed at elevating the profession's standards and visibility. As of 2025, Oliver Tierney serves as President of AfPP, aiming to drive positive change through enhanced advocacy and educational programs.

Career Pathways

Employment Areas

Operating department practitioners (ODPs) primarily work within the (NHS) in the , where the majority of employment opportunities are concentrated in hospital operating theatres and recovery units. These settings involve providing perioperative care in acute hospital environments, supporting surgical teams during procedures across various specialties. Additionally, ODPs are employed in private clinics and centers, such as day surgery units, where they assist in outpatient procedures that do not require overnight stays. In specialized areas, ODPs contribute to critical care units and emergency departments, applying their skills in high-acuity environments like intensive care and accident and emergency (A&E) settings to manage urgent perioperative needs. They also participate in military contexts through roles in the Royal Air Force and Royal Navy, delivering surgical support in operational deployments, as well as humanitarian missions via organizations like UK-Med, which deploys ODPs to global emergency responses. As of April 2025, there are 16,921 registered ODPs in the workforce, reflecting steady growth in the amid ongoing demand, particularly in urban centers like where vacancy rates remain high due to expanding surgical services. Employment often involves rotational shift patterns, including day shifts from 8:00 to 18:00, late shifts until 21:30, and night shifts from 21:30 to 8:30, alongside weekends and on-call duties for emergencies to ensure 24/7 coverage in environments. International opportunities for ODPs are limited but available in Commonwealth countries such as and parts of , where (HCPC) registration may be recognized or adapted for equivalence, allowing skilled migration for perioperative roles.

Role Expansion and Advancement

Operating department practitioners (ODPs) in the UK can advance their careers through structured progression pathways that leverage clinical experience and continuing professional development (CPD). Common routes include promotion to senior ODP positions, where individuals take on supervisory responsibilities in perioperative teams, or transitions to theater management roles overseeing operational aspects of surgical departments. Further advancement often involves educational roles, such as becoming clinical educators who mentor trainees during placements, supported by CPD activities like qualifications, which 37% of ODPs have completed. These pathways typically require several years of post-registration experience and alignment with the (HCPC) standards. Expanded scopes of practice enable ODPs to move beyond traditional perioperative duties into advanced clinical roles, such as surgical care practitioners or anaesthesia associates, which demand Master's-level and at least three years of prior experience. These positions involve autonomous in areas like critical care or , contributing to workforce transformation in response to NHS demands. Non-surgical extensions include advanced practice in and research, where ODPs can lead studies on perioperative outcomes or implement evidence-based interventions, fostering innovation in patient care. Poly-skilling initiatives further support this by allowing ODPs to develop cross-functional expertise across anaesthesia, , and recovery phases, enhancing efficiency in high-pressure environments. In 2025, ODP roles face significant challenges from workforce shortages, with the NHS reporting 102,576 vacancies across healthcare as of June 2025 and projecting a 25% increase in allied health professional training places to 18,800 by 2031/32 to address gaps. Opportunities arise from role extensions into critical care and prehabilitation, helping to mitigate attrition, where 36% of leavers are early-career ODPs (with less than 5 years' experience) according to 2022 data, through diversified options like advanced critical care practitioner positions. These expansions align with the NHS Long Term Workforce Plan's goal of growing senior clinical decision-makers by 46%, positioning ODPs to support telemedicine and interfaces where perioperative expertise can inform broader patient pathways. Leadership development for ODPs emphasizes mentorship programs and interprofessional training, with opportunities to pursue qualifications that equip practitioners for team and in operating theaters. However, access remains uneven, as ODPs often encounter barriers to equitable leadership pathways compared to nurses and doctors, including limited visibility in senior roles. Historical under-recognition persists as a key barrier, with ODPs frequently overshadowed by in terms of professional visibility and career equity, leading to a "" in progression and exclusion from inclusive job opportunities. Ongoing advocacy through bodies like the College of Operating Department Practice seeks parity by promoting standardized advanced roles and improved public awareness, addressing inconsistencies in skill utilization and regulatory support for independent practice elements like Patient Group Directions.

References

  1. https://www.healthcareers.nhs.uk/explore-roles/allied-health-professionals/roles-allied-health-professions/operating-department-practitioner
  2. https://www.uhdb.nhs.uk/operating-department-practitioner/
  3. https://www.hcpc-uk.org/standards/standards-of-proficiency/operating-department-practitioners/
  4. https://www.careers.nhs.scot/explore-careers/nursing/operating-department-practitioner/
  5. https://www.professionalstandards.org.uk/practitioners/operating-department-practitioner
  6. https://www.unison.org.uk/content/uploads/2021/11/History-of-CODP-2021.pdf
  7. http://assets.cambridge.org/97805217/17045/excerpt/9780521717045_excerpt.htm
  8. https://www.england.nhs.uk/long-read/nhs-long-term-workforce-plan-2/
  9. https://www.yorksj.ac.uk/news/2025/odp/
  10. https://www.bcu.ac.uk/news-events/news/operating-department-practitioners-the-unsung-heroes-of-the-covid-19-crisis
  11. https://www.afpp.org.uk/about/operating-department-practitioner/
  12. https://www.who.int/teams/integrated-health-services/patient-safety/research/safe-surgery/tool-and-resources
  13. https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/extend-medicines-responsibilities-for-allied-health-professions
  14. https://www.bcu.ac.uk/courses/operating-department-practice-bsc-hons-2026-27
  15. https://www.jobs.nhs.uk/candidate/jobadvert/C9259-24-2981
  16. https://www.jobs.nhs.uk/candidate/jobadvert/C9361-23-0335
  17. https://www.lsbu.ac.uk/study/course-finder/bsc-hons-operating-department-practice
  18. https://www.uk-med.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Candidate-Information-Pack-Operating-Department-Practitioners-Register-February-2025.pdf
  19. https://www.unison.org.uk/content/uploads/2018/09/CODP-BScHons-in-ODP-Curriculum-Document-Sept-2018.pdf
  20. https://findapprenticeshiptraining.apprenticeships.education.gov.uk/courses/306
  21. https://www.coventry.ac.uk/course-structure/ug/hls-nhs/operating-department-practice-bsc/
  22. https://www.hcpc-uk.org/education/approved-programmes/education-programmes/msc-operating-department-practice-pre-registration/
  23. https://www.yorksj.ac.uk/courses/postgraduate/operating-department-practice/
  24. https://www.hcpc-uk.org/about-us/who-we-regulate/the-professions/
  25. https://www.hcpc-uk.org/registration/getting-on-the-register/uk-applications/
  26. https://www.hcpc-uk.org/registration/getting-on-the-register/
  27. https://www.hcpc-uk.org/standards/standards-of-continuing-professional-development/
  28. https://www.hcpc-uk.org/cpd/our-cpd-requirements/
  29. https://www.hcpc-uk.org/registration/registration-renewals/
  30. https://www.hcpc-uk.org/news-and-events/blog/2024/sustainability-in-health-and-care-practice/
  31. https://www.hcpc-uk.org/resources/strategy/digital-transformation-strategy-2021-2025/
  32. https://www.hcpc-uk.org/news-and-events/get-involved/cpd-week-2025/key-activities-and-resources---cpd-week-2025/
  33. https://www.hcpc-uk.org/standards/standards-of-conduct-performance-and-ethics/
  34. https://www.hcpc-uk.org/concerns/what-we-investigate/fitness-to-practise/
  35. https://www.afpp.org.uk/about/our-history/
  36. https://codp.org.uk/
  37. https://www.ifpn.world/
  38. https://www.clinicalservicesjournal.com/story/47482/new-afpp-president-aims-to-drive-positive-change
  39. https://www.prospects.ac.uk/job-profiles/operating-department-practitioner
  40. https://recruitment.raf.mod.uk/roles/roles-finder/medical-services/operating-department-practitioner/?time=reserves
  41. https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/careers/roles/operating-department-practitioner-qualified
  42. https://www.hcpc-uk.org/resources/data/2025/registrant-snapshot-april-2025/
  43. https://uk.indeed.com/q-operating-department-practitioner-jobs.html
  44. https://www.totaljobs.com/jobs/odp/in-london
  45. https://www.nhsjobs.com/job/UK/Devon/Torquay/Torbay_South_Devon_NHS_Foundation_Trust/Operation_Department_Practitioner/Operation_Department_Practitioner-v7545080
  46. https://www.nurses.co.uk/blog/career-pathways/exploring-odp-career-choice-comparison-nursing-career-progression
  47. https://www.ewin.nhs.uk/sites/default/files/AHP%20Operating%20Department%20Practitioners%20Evidence%20Brief%202025.pdf
  48. https://www.hee.nhs.uk/sites/default/files/documents/ODP%20full%20report.pdf
  49. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11749317/
  50. https://digital.nhs.uk/data-and-information/publications/statistical/nhs-vacancies-survey/april-2015---june-2025-experimental-statistics
  51. https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/17504589251319967
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