team may need. They may also set up extra equipment and act as a link between the surgical team and the rest of the hospital. Postoperative Practitioner When a patients operation been satisfactorily completed and is 'rousable' by the anaesthetist, the patient will then taken to the recovery area, where a qualified professional will monitor the patients condition, providing airway management if needed and recognise and record the patient's physiological signs. The ODP may administer treatments such as, the administration of prescribed drugs, enabling the patient to fully recover from the effects of anaesthesia. The ODP will liaise with other departments and staff such as, the ward staff, porters, consultants, to safely discharge the patient back to the ward environment. Training A Diploma of Higher Education (DipHE) is the minimum standard of training required to work as an ODP in the United Kingdom. An undergraduate degree BSc (Hons) in Operating Department Practice is a more common standard for entry into the profession. A DipHE usually takes two years to complete, with a BSC (Hons) requiring three. By 2010 there were 27 universities and colleges in the United Kingdom offering a qualification in operating department practice. Apprenticeships programmes have recently been introduced, as an alternative pathway for individuals to train as ODPs. Apprentices are required to complete an HCPC-approved BSc (Hons) degree in Operating Department Practice, whilst additionally meeting the required 15 standards set out in the Care Certificate within three months of commencement. The duration of ODP apprenticeship courses, typically takes four years to complete. Once qualified, ODPs can further their clinical and professional development by obtaining additional training or competencies related to their role. Courses are usually provided by their individual trusts or national providers such as universities or related colleges, RCOA. Additional skills including of but not limited to venepuncture, intravenous drug administration, peripheral venous cannulation, electrocardiography, peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC and midline) training and urinary catheterization. As healthcare professionals, ODPs can also obtain certifications in cardiopulmonary resuscitation courses from the Resuscitation Council, including: immediate life support, paediatric immediate life support and advanced life support. Role expansion With localised training within NHS trusts, ODPs can expand on their roles outside the traditional theatre setting. This has seen operating department practitioners being utilised, in other specialist roles and critical care settings within the hospital environment. Qualified and experienced ODPs can apply and undertake approved training by the Royal