UNI PRACTICE QUESTIONS

Question 1

Why have you chosen to study Operating Department Practice?

Answer 1

• “I’ve always been passionate about healthcare and making a difference in people’s lives.
• The Operating Department Practice course stood out to me because it offers the opportunity to be directly involved in critical moments of patient care, whether that’s in the anesthetic, surgical, or recovery phases.
• I’m particularly drawn to the idea of working as part of a multidisciplinary team in high-pressure environments, ensuring patients are safe and supported during surgery.
• This role combines my interest in healthcare, problem-solving, and my desire to help others.”

Question 2

What skills or qualities do you think are important for an ODP?

Answer 2

• “An ODP must be highly skilled in communication, teamwork, and critical thinking.
• In the operating room, clear communication is vital to ensure the team works efficiently and patient safety is maintained.
• Attention to detail is equally important because even small errors can have serious consequences.
• Additionally, an ODP needs to remain calm under pressure and adapt quickly to unexpected situations.
• I also think empathy is crucial, as ODPs play a key role in supporting patients emotionally, especially during the anesthetic and recovery phases.”

Question 3

Tell us about a time when you worked under pressure or in a team. How did you handle it?

Question 4

How do you handle stress or emotionally challenging situations?

Answer 4

• “I understand that working in the operating department can be emotionally and physically demanding.
• To manage stress, I focus on staying organized, practicing mindfulness, and relying on teamwork for support.
• I also believe in taking time for self-care outside of work, such as exercising or spending time with family and friends.
• While challenging situations may arise, I remind myself of the positive impact I’m making on patients’ lives, which keeps me motivated and grounded.”

Question 5

What do you know about the role of an ODP in the surgical team?

Answer 5

• “An ODP is a vital member of the surgical team, providing care during the three main phases of surgery: anesthetic, surgical, and recovery.
• In the anesthetic phase, ODPs assist the anesthetist in preparing equipment, monitoring the patient, and ensuring their comfort.
• During surgery, ODPs may act as scrub practitioners, maintaining the sterile field and providing the surgeon with instruments.
• In the recovery phase, they monitor patients as they wake from anesthesia, ensuring their safety and addressing any complications.
• It’s a dynamic role that requires technical expertise, adaptability, and compassion.”

Question 6

Why have you chosen the University of West London?

Answer 6

• “I chose the University of West London because of its strong reputation for healthcare courses and the support it provides to students.
• I was impressed by the university’s state-of-the-art facilities, including simulation labs that provide hands-on learning opportunities.
• Additionally, the emphasis on placements within NHS Trusts will give me invaluable real-world experience, allowing me to develop the practical skills and confidence needed to excel as an ODP.”

Question 7

What challenges do you think you might face during this course, and how will you overcome them?

Answer 7

• “I anticipate that balancing the academic and practical aspects of the course will be challenging, particularly during placements.
• However, I’m highly organized and plan to manage my time effectively, ensuring I stay on top of coursework while making the most of placement opportunities.
• I also recognize that operating in high-pressure environments can be emotionally demanding, but I’m committed to seeking support from my peers and tutors when needed.
• My determination to succeed in this field will help me overcome any challenges.”

Question 8

What do you hope to achieve after completing this course?

Answer 8

• “After completing this course, I hope to become a qualified ODP working in the NHS.
• My long-term goal is to specialize in an area such as pediatric surgery or trauma care, where I can continue to develop my skills and make a meaningful difference to patients.
• I also hope to contribute to the development of the profession, possibly by mentoring future students or participating in initiatives to improve patient care.”

Question 9

How would you handle a situation where a team member made a mistake?

Answer 9

• “If a team member made a mistake, I would address the situation in a professional and supportive manner.
• Patient safety is the top priority, so I would calmly work with the team to rectify the issue as quickly as possible.
• Afterward, I would encourage an open and constructive discussion to understand what went wrong and how we can prevent similar issues in the future.
• It’s important to maintain a blame-free culture where the team can learn from mistakes and continuously improve.”

Question 10

How have your experiences prepared you for this course?

Answer 10

• “My experiences in [insert relevant experience, e.g., healthcare, customer service, volunteering] have prepared me by developing my communication and teamwork skills.
• For example, during [specific example], I worked closely with a diverse group of people to achieve a common goal under tight deadlines.
• Additionally, my ability to remain calm under pressure and my passion for helping others align with the qualities required for an ODP.
• These experiences have strengthened my resolve to pursue this career and prepared me for the challenges of the course.”

Question 11

What are the NHS Values/NHS Constitution?

Answer 11

• working together for patients. Patients come first in everything we do
• respect and dignity. We value every person – whether patient, their families or carers, or staff – as an individual, respect their aspirations and commitments in life, and seek to understand their priorities, needs, abilities and limits
• commitment to quality of care. We earn the trust placed in us by insisting on quality and striving to get the basics of quality of care – safety, effectiveness and patient experience right every time
  compassion. We ensure that compassion is central to the care we provide and respond with humanity and kindness to each person’s pain, distress, anxiety or need
• improving lives. We strive to improve health and wellbeing and people’s experiences of the NHS
• everyone counts. We maximise our resources for the whole community’s benefit and ensure nobody is excluded, discriminated against or left behind.

Question 12

What are the 6Cs?

Answer 12

Care, commitment, compassion, competence, communication and courage