Anna Nova Galeon

16-05-2025

Image by nd3000 via Envato Elements

Operating Department Practitioners: Committed to care – committed to safety

Each year on 14 May, the healthcare community across the UK comes together to celebrate Operating Department Practitioner (ODP) Day, an annual event dedicated to recognising the outstanding work of ODPs in surgical and perioperative care settings. This important awareness initiative highlights the vital role these skilled professionals play in safeguarding patients' health, dignity, and well-being throughout their surgical journey.

From preparing patients for anaesthesia, assisting during operations, to monitoring their recovery in the post-operative phase, ODPs are the unsung heroes working behind the scenes in operating theatres, emergency units, and intensive care. Their commitment to patient safety, clinical precision, and compassionate care ensures that every procedure, no matter how complex, is delivered to the highest possible standard.

Who are the ODP?

ODPs are highly trained healthcare professionals who play a critical role in the perioperative environment. They work across three main phases of surgical care:

• Anaesthetics - Supporting patients and anaesthetists during the preparation and induction of anaesthesia
• Surgery - Acting as scrub practitioners, ensuring surgical instruments are sterile and assisting surgeons throughout procedures
• Recovery - Monitoring and caring for patients as they regain consciousness and begin their postoperative recovery.

ODPs are the backbone of every successful surgical team. Their calm presence, technical skills, and vigilance ensure that patient safety is always the top priority.

Why ODP Day matters

Despite their critical role, many people are unaware of ODPs' work. ODP Day 2025 aims to raise awareness about the profession, promote career pathways, and encourage recognition for the invaluable contribution ODPs make to hospitals and healthcare facilities.

This year’s celebration is especially significant as it represents the "Oak Anniversary", commemorating 80 years of strength, growth, and dedication within the profession. Like the mighty oak, ODPs are deeply rooted in the values of care and safety.

The 2025 theme - Committed to care - committed to safety

The 2025 theme reflects the core values that define the ODP role. Every day, ODPs demonstrate their:

• Commitment to care - Offering compassionate, patient-centred care during vulnerable moments in the surgical journey
• Commitment to safety - Adhering to the highest infection control standards, risk management, and clinical governance.

This dual commitment supports better patient outcomes and a stronger, more resilient healthcare system.

A profession built on excellence and innovation

ODPs are not only practitioners but also innovators and educators. Many ODPs now take on roles in:

• Clinical education and training
• Leadership and operational management
• Emergency and critical care settings
• Quality assurance and risk assessment.

As the healthcare landscape evolves, so too does the ODP profession, adapting to meet the complex needs of modern surgical and anaesthetic care.

How to get involved in ODP Day 2025

Whether you're a healthcare professional, educator, student, or simply someone who values safe surgical care, there are many ways to get involved in ODP Day 2025:

• Raise awareness - Share facts about the ODP role on social media or within your organisation
• Organise an event - Host a talk, display, or educational workshop in your workplace
• Thank an ODP - A small gesture of appreciation goes a long way.
• Learn more - Explore career opportunities or training options for aspiring ODPs
• Promote compliance - Encourage your healthcare team to stay up to date with training via The Mandatory Training Group and ComplyPlus™.

By getting involved, you're helping amplify the voice of a profession truly committed to care and safety.

Conclusion

Operating Department Practitioner Day 2025 is a powerful reminder of the dedication, expertise, and humanity that ODPs bring to healthcare daily. As we mark 80 years of this vital profession, let’s take this opportunity to celebrate their contributions, support their development, and raise awareness of their role in delivering safe and effective care.

Let’s work together to ensure ODPs receive the recognition and support they greatly deserve.

Supporting ODPs through education and compliance

At The Mandatory Training Group, we understand the importance of continuous professional development for ODPs. Our extensive range of CPD-accredited courses is tailored to meet the evolving demands of perioperative practice, including:

• Infection prevention and control
• Anaesthetic assistance
• Surgical asepsis and scrub skills
• Post-anaesthesia recovery care
• Clinical governance and risk management.

Through our innovative ComplyPlus™ software, we empower healthcare organisations to streamline compliance, manage training records, and meet regulatory standards easily. We ensure that every ODP has the tools and support needed to deliver safe, competent, and effective care.