College of Surgeons. Progressing to surgical care practitioners, assisting in some surgical procedures under the supervision of a consultant surgeon. 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. Titles 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 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 settings, 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 arrest 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 devices teams and clinics (hospital-based). Professional organizations The HCPC recognises two professional bodies for ODPs: The College of Operating Department Practitioners (CODP), previously known as the Association of Operating Department Practitioners (AODP) The Association for Perioperative Practice (AfPP) ODPs are also eligible to apply for associate membership with the Difficult Airway Society. See also Anaesthetic technician in New Zealand healthcare Surgical technologist in United States healthcare References External links College of Operating Department Practitioners (CODP) The Operating Theatre Journal Association for Perioperative Practice Health care occupations National Health Service