103 Introduction of assistant theatre practitioners (ATPs) to post-anaesthetic care unit (PACU). (December 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Ojo, I
• Is Part Of: Archives of disease in childhood. Volume 103:Supplement 2(2018)
• Page Start: A41
• Page End: A41
• Publication Date: 2018-12
• Subjects: Infants -- Diseases -- Periodicals; Newborn infants -- Diseases -- Periodicals; Fetus -- Diseases -- Periodicals; 618.920105
• DOI: 10.1136/goshabs.103
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1359-2998

Abstract

Abstract : Background: With the opening of a new PACU, the idea of incorporating a new workforce of ATPs to aid the patient experience and trust values presented itself. The proposal was that the ATPs would be trained to admit, recover and discharge patients creating a link between the ward and theatre and hopefully increasing positive patient experience and reducing patient/parent anxiety by having the same staff member follow the patient through their surgical journey and be able to explain what happens in theatre/recovery. Aims: After a thorough research into ATPs and the availability of university modules appropriate for this role, it was clear that a new training pack would need to be developed to comply with the academic requirement for Band 4 s and to ensure patient safety. With the overall senior management, HR, Education department and Nursing workforce support, the training period was agreed to twelve months. Six months as supernumerary to allow for placements and study days, with six months of consolidation. A carefully designed training programme was developed by the Theatre Practice Educators to incorporate anaesthetic, recovery and ward placements and six full study days. Once the Education department signed off the training package, the recruitment commenced. It was decided that a training contract with additional terms and conditions was the most appropriate to allow for some flexibility and options. Results/conclusion: Three ATP trainees were selected and since successfully completed the training, including the consolidation period. They have incorporated into the recovery and ward team with no problems and although some change to the initial plan had to be made, the feedback from both staff and patients have been positive and encouraging. In order to continue and expand the service, and to provide this workforce in future to other Trust, it would be helpful if the training could be provided centrally via Universities.