What is Inter-Professional Learning and why is it important?

Discover how ODP students develop crucial, life-saving techniques that equip them to respond swiftly and effectively in medical emergencies.

Dip HE ODP 19-20

Across healthcare, education, social work and policing, we have a strong record in training the people needed to power the public sector.

We also recognise that no matter what profession we’re training you for, when on placement – and when you’re qualified – you won’t be operating alone. Not only will you work with an immediate team in the same area, but you also need to work with range of other professions to deliver the best service, whether that’s for patients, pupils or the public at large.

That’s why we deliver inter-professional, immersive learning experiences for students on our healthcare courses to help develop an understanding of a patient’s journey and how the different health professions interact with them.

Recently, we brought together student apprentices who are training and studying to qualify as Operating Department Practitioners. Students were able to experience of how a patient might be treated by paramedics and in critical care before reaching them in the operating theatre. 

Claire McGuire, Associate Professor for Clinical Skills and Simulation, emphasised the importance of inter-professional learning:

"Interprofessional learning is what we do every day out in practice. Having an appreciation and understanding of one another’s roles really helps in terms of the patient journey. If we can appreciate what different departments and different teams do, it supports and enhances the care we provide to patients."

The day was structured around three simulation stations: Paramedic, Accident & Emergency (A&E), and Operating Theatre scenarios. These stations provided students with a comprehensive view of the entire patient journey, from emergency response to critical care in surgery, increasing their overall understanding of the patient’s perspective, which allows them to make educated and informed decisions in their workplace.

Lee Rollason, an Operating Department Practitioner, highlighted the rewarding nature of the profession:

"The best thing about being an ODP is that you get to provide vulnerable people with the very best care during a difficult time in their life. It's rewarding to know you’re contributing to bettering someone’s life, or at least helping them recover as best as possible."

A key focus of the day was teaching students how to handle difficult conversations with patients’ relatives. From knowing when a face-to-face conversation is necessary rather than communicating over the phone, to offering small gestures of kindness like a cup of tea before delivering difficult news. Students learned how to create a calm environment for relatives during difficult times. These seemingly minor acts can leave a lasting impression, helping families through some of the toughest times in their lives.

 

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