The role of an ODP

Hi all,

After a long break I am back to documenting the ups and downs of life via ODP blogs XD

Today I wanted to go back to basics and talk about the role of an ODP. An ODP (Operating Department Practitioner) cares for the patient throughout their perioperative journey. This consists of three phases; Anaesthetics, Surgery and Recovery.

• Anaesthetics:

The role of the ODP is to assist during the induction and maintenance of anaesthesia. This includes checking anaesthetic machines and taking responsibility of controlled drugs- documentation of use etc.. Applying non-invasive monitoring; Pulse oximeter, BP cuff and ECG leads. Assisting with invasive monitoring such as the insertion of Arterial lines.

Preparation of I.V drips and cannulae, assisting with insertion and applying dressings. Preparing airway equipment and Assisting with insertion and ventilation if required. Vital signs must also be monitored throughout and appropriate assistance offered.

• Surgery:

The ODP assists the surgeon throughout the surgical procedure; draping sterile drapes over the patient, keeping instruments and sundries in order and passing them over in a safe manner when required by the surgeon or surgical assistant. Maintaining a sterile field.

• Recovery:

The ODP looks after the patient as they recover from the effects of anaesthesia. They must effectively manage the immediate outcomes of surgery including; pain, nausea and vomiting, drowsiness, confusion. The ODP must ensure the patient is pain free, comfortable and in an alert state prior to discharge to the ward.

In all 3 roles documentation and high level of care are of utmost importance as although the roles differ, there is a shared goal of providing the patient with an excellent standard of care and improving their quality of life. Obviously there is lots more to it but I have just skimmed the surface.

Hope that was interesting 😀

-Aliyah