Operating Department Practice (Diploma)
UCAS Code: B990 DipHE/ODP
This pre-registration programme is designed to prepare students, not only for demanding clinical practice immediately upon qualification, but also to prepare them to continue their learning beyond registration and to promote continuous improvement in care delivery.
The three principal aims of the Programme are:
- To prepare students for employment as Operating Department Practitioners.
- To enable students to prepare for and be eligible to apply for professional registration with the Health Professions Council.
- To assist students to develop critical thinking, intellectual integrity, understanding and practical skills with specific reference to operating department practice.
Structure and Content
The Programme is offered in full-time (2 year) mode, according to Welsh Assembly Government requirements. A key feature of the programme is the integration of theory and practice within the modules, which are equally divided between Year 1 and Year 2. Each module has been designed to cover a discrete major topic area, and you need to complete all six 20 credit modules in Year 1, and all six 20 credit modules in Year 2.
Interprofessional Education
It has been long been acknowledged by the Department and the Operating Department Practice (ODP) profession that the operating department is a complex environment with staff of different professions and support workers working together for the care of patients. It is the intention of this programme to utilise opportunities offered by this interprofessional clinical environment to enhance and develop your learning. You will, therefore, continue to work alongside medical, dental and nursing students, doctors, dentists (oral surgeons) and nurses, whilst also encountering a variety of other healthcare professionals and students including, for example, radiographers, physiotherapists and pharmacists, during clinical placements. In addition, you will also fully participate in the interprofessional learning initiative of learning alongside other School of Healthcare Studies students during the Year 2 Professional Practice module. Assessment on placement will also be on a multi-professional basis and you can expect to be assessed by those most suited to the particular requirements of the assessment regardless of professional background. Further, you will have opportunity to participate in the ‘buddying’ system operated by the School of Medicine for medical students on placement.
Core Themes
In seeking to assist your development from novice to professional practitioner, capable of independent thought and action, the Programme provides you with a coherent framework. The appropriate knowledge, skills, understanding and professional attributes and competences for the role of an ODP are framed within the core themes of professional awareness, provision of individualised patient care and multidisciplinary team working. You will apply your knowledge and understanding in the clinical context in the provision of individualised patient care. During this provision you will develop professional awareness within your role and an understanding of group dynamics within the care team.
Transferable Skills
Transferable skills are an essential component of your learning during your time on the Programme, which provides you with the opportunity to develop, or continue to enhance, lifelong learning skills and provide the basis for continuing personal and professional development. One example is that of the communication of ideas and team work, which are an integral part of practice and therefore seen in all modules. Promotion of basic information and communication technology skills is essential to the Programme, as it can be found in all modules at Level 1 and 2.
You will also have the opportunity to attend University approved courses provided by the Careers Service, and by the Students Union, which focus on transferable skills. Clinical Educators, Mentors and Personal Tutors will provide you with appropriate support, as well as confirm that you have engaged in the Personal Development Planning process.
See this course on the University's Coursefinder website.