Meghann Cross

DipHE Operating Department Practice

“Why did you choose to study at Anglia Ruskin University?
Location was a big part in my decision but out of the other universities I visited I preferred the campus here and the health building with all the practical equipment. The main deciding factor was the course structure - 3 placement days and 1 university day per week for the full course - which was unlike the month placement/month university in most other universities.

What initially attracted you to your course?
I was originally looking at doing a nursing course and then specialise in theatres, but when I came to an open day I walked into the room set up like an operating theatre and heard about the ODP role which I'd not heard of before. The course was shorter than nursing and was all theatre based which was what I was really after.

Which aspects of your course do you enjoy most and why?
I love the practical aspects of the course; learning practical skills and then learning again how to adapt each skill for each patient depending on their needs. The mentors in the hospitals are so helpful and working in a team is great.

Has the course met/exceeded your expectations? If so, how?
I have been surprised how much we are able to do in the hospital already and how much I've learned in such a short time. The assignments have been harder than I expected but classmates and mentors are a fantastic help.

Would you recommend your course to others?
If you want to be in the theatre environment then go for it! Unlike theatre nurses we also get to work in recovery and anaesthetics and unlike anaesthetists we get to scrub up and help with the operations.

Please tell us about special features that you have benefited from on your course.
The library resources both at the university and the hospital have been so helpful along with the online reference library. The employment bureau has helped me find a couple of days work most months which helps bring in a few extras pennies too!

Has your course involved any work placements? What was the best experience on placement?
Being constantly in placement we get to see what the job really entails right from the start. We get into placement within the second week of starting the course.

I have loved being in anaesthetics helping calm patients before their operations and again in recovery after, but the best part for me so far as been scrubbing in for operations. I've scrubbed in for a few caesarian sections already and seeing the reactions of the patients as well as the skill of surgeons was amazing.

What was the most challenging experience during your placement?
Adapting learned skills to each new patient, those with learning difficulties or hearing impairment I have personally found challenging. It can also be difficult when you see patients who you know are very ill or are coming in for palliative care - that can be quite emotional.

What are your ambitions / plans for the future?
I plan to qualify in a little under 2 years as an ODP and to go straight into employment, hopefully in my placement hospital.

How do you rate the support offered by both our teaching and support staff?
Each mentor gives you a different level of support but they all help when asked. The employment bureau have been amazing help as have the library staff.

How do you rate our facilities and resources on offer at our campuses?
The library is well stocked and the staff are fantastic. The canteen provides good food at a decent price. The William Harvey Building has fantastic practice rooms - fully operational equipment as you would find in a real hospital.

How do you find fitting you studies around your outside commitments including work, family etc?
I've not found that I have had time to continue working alongside my studies although some of my colleagues have. I'd highly recommend saving before your course.

I try to keep at least one day a week completely uni free so I can enjoy time with friends and family. There is a local jive club down the road so I get to dance at least once a week. The gym on campus is well equipped and incredible value.

How would you sum up your experience of studying at Anglia Ruskin course so far?
Challenging but worth it! I've struggled at times with the course essays but help has been available.

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