Advancing Clinical Leadership through Professional Development
Victoria Brydon – Senior Operating Department Practitioner
As a Senior Operating Department Practitioner, my primary responsibility is to care for patients within the theatre complex, covering all phases of their care. This includes the induction of anaesthesia, intraoperative care, and postoperative recovery in the post-anaesthetic care room. I specialise in managing difficult airways, often assisting anaesthetists with intubation and airway management across the Trust, particularly in the Emergency Department (ED) and Intensive Care Unit (ICU). Additionally, I support patient transfers, S.O.R.T transfers, obstetric emergencies, cardiac arrests, and have worked in ICU during the COVID-19 pandemic. My role also involves assisting anaesthetists during outreach anaesthetics in endoscopy and cardiology. Essentially, wherever there is an anaesthetist, an Operating Department Practitioner (ODP) is not far behind.
Leadership and Management Apprenticeship
I completed an apprenticeship in Leadership and Management, marking my first formal training outside of clinical practice. This programme included a variety of modules such as project management, stakeholder relationships, self-awareness, and finance and budgets. I learned numerous models and theories to enhance my effectiveness as a manager, building a solid foundation of knowledge to support my practice. The apprenticeship required me to complete a series of knowledge tasks, skills, and behaviours, which I had to demonstrate and document. My End Point Assessment involved presenting on a set topic and engaging in a professional discussion with an examiner.
Having worked clinically for over 15 years, I felt it was the right time to challenge myself and set new goals that were slightly outside my comfort zone. The Training and Development Lead within my department offered this course, and it seemed like the perfect opportunity for me to advance my career.
Skill development
The Leadership and Management qualification I obtained is highly transferable, applicable not only within the Operating Department or the NHS but also in other roles and industries. I acquired numerous new skills and had the chance to interact with professionals from various fields, gaining insights into their work and understanding that many industries share similar challenges and successes. This qualification has equipped me with the knowledge and confidence to pursue managerial roles, ensuring I understand the principles behind my actions rather than relying on guesswork.
Advocating continued professional development
I would recommend this course to any aspiring or newly appointed manager, provided they have the necessary support. Many of the modules are skills-based and practical, which can be challenging within a clinical role. However, the benefits of this training are substantial, offering valuable skills and knowledge that can significantly enhance one’s managerial capabilities.
Interested in a career in the NHS?
This case study demonstrates the importance of professional development in advancing clinical leadership. By undertaking relevant qualifications, healthcare professionals can broaden their skill sets, improve their effectiveness, and open up new career opportunities. Click here to see what exciting roles and opportunities are available at the NHS.
Last Modified: 10:13am 15/08/2024
For all media enquiries please contact [email protected]