Apprentice ODP

Go back Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust

The closing date is 11 February 2026

Operating Department Practitioners (ODPs) are registered healthcare professionals specialising in caring for people of all ages before, during & after surgery. ODPs therefore mainly work in operating departments. They work alongside other professionals and take a lead role in ensuring patient safety during each stage of a patient s perioperative journey.

On successful completion of the apprenticeship programme the Apprentice ODP will demonstrate that they meet the Health & Care Professions Council (2014) Standards of Proficiency for Operating Department Practitioners and are therefore eligible to apply for HCPC registration.

• The Apprentice Operating Department Practitioner (ODP) will work towards becoming a Registered ODP by gaining a BSc (Hons) in Operating Department Practice. The Apprentice ODP will undertake an apprenticeship programme incorporating the Integrated Degree Apprenticeship Standards for Operating Department Practice. The apprenticeship programme combines academic and work-based learning; the Apprentice ODP will be fully supported to develop the skills required over the duration of the apprenticeship.
• The Apprentice ODP will be based, as a paid employee, within Theatres at Torbay & South Devon Healthcare NHS Trust. They will also gain a wider perspective of healthcare delivery by undertaking additional clinical placements within other departments within the Trust where possible. They will work collaboratively to maintain patient safety and provide high standards of skilled care and support during each stage of the patient s journey through the operating theatre, including three distinct phases of Perioperative Care (anaesthesia, surgery and post anaesthetic care).
  
  The Apprentice ODP will ensure their activities are in accordance with the Association for Perioperative Practice. The Apprentice ODP will ensure their activities are in accordance with the Association for Perioperative Practice (2022) Standards and Recommendations for Perioperative Practice.

See Job Description for further details on the role.

Why Work With Us

We are a professional, caring, dynamic, dedicated and welcoming team performing procedures encompassing multiple specialties, which include both inpatient and day surgery. Working in operating theatres is all about teamwork, we work with a multidisciplinary team such as surgeons, anaesthetists, nurses, ODPs, assistant practitioners and healthcare assistants. We also have a varied group of students/ learners and strive to give all our students the best opportunity.

The practice educators in the department are responsible to ensure you have the best opportunities to achieve both your competencies and competence in your role.

Key Responsibilities include:

• Provide individualised care for patients prior to and throughout surgery or other procedures, including providing reassurance and support
• Use a wide range of clinical skills to provide a safe environment during the administration and maintenance of anaesthesia
• Assist anaesthesia with the use of medical devices & pharmacological (drugs) means
• Preparation of a wide range of specialist equipment and devices
• Position the patient to optimize surgical access, maintaining patient safety and dignity
• Maintain a sterile working area & safely & effectively perform aseptic technique (including scrubbing, gloving & gowning)
• Perform scrub skills under guidance and supervision of the mentor and in line with local Trust policies
• Selection, preparation and provision of the correct sterile surgical equipment to the surgeon and be accountable for all surgical instruments, equipment and swabs throughout the procedure
• Anticipate the requirements of the surgical team, responding appropriately and effectively
• Ensure the correct management of clinical specimens
• Observe and monitor the patients vital signs. Monitor airway, breathing & circulation
• Maintain the patients airway, identifying and responding to changes in the patients condition
• Monitor & record fluids balance & administer prescribed fluids…