Top 20 Interview Questions & Answers for Operating Department Practitioners – 2025

Preparing for a job interview as an Operating Department Practitioner (ODP)? This guide provides a comprehensive list of essential questions and answers that will help you highlight your technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and experience working in a fast-paced medical environment. Whether you're applying for a role in a hospital, surgical center, or other medical setting, these questions cover all key areas of the job.

General Questions

• 1. Tell me about your experience as an Operating Department Practitioner.
  As an ODP, I have been working in the medical field for the past 5 years. I have experience in assisting with surgeries, preparing operating rooms, and managing patient care during and after procedures. I am knowledgeable in medical terminology and have received training in handling specialized equipment used in surgeries.
• 2. How do you keep up with developments in the medical field?
  I make sure to regularly attend conferences and workshops to stay updated on the latest advancements in the medical field. I also follow reputable medical journals and publications to keep myself informed. Additionally, I am constantly seeking opportunities for continued education and certifications to improve my skills and knowledge.
• 3. How do you prioritize your tasks in a fast-paced medical environment?
  I prioritize my tasks based on the urgency of each patient's condition and the procedures scheduled for the day. I communicate with my team and delegate tasks as needed to ensure efficient use of our time and resources. I also make sure to take breaks and manage my time effectively to avoid burnout and maintain top performance.

Technical Skills & Experience

• 4. What experience do you have with anesthesia equipment?
  I am trained in handling various types of anesthesia equipment and have experience in setting them up, maintaining them, and troubleshooting any issues that may arise. I am also knowledgeable in the different types of anesthetics used and their effects on patients.
• 5. How do you ensure proper sterilization of surgical instruments and equipment?
  I strictly follow all established protocols for instrument sterilization, including inspecting and replacing any damaged or outdated equipment. I also utilize proper techniques for disinfection and maintain detailed records to track and verify instrument sterilization.
• 6. How do you handle emergencies during surgery?
  In the event of an emergency, I remain calm and focused, quickly assessing the situation and taking appropriate action. I also communicate effectively with the surgical team to ensure the safety and well-being of the patient. I have experience in dealing with various emergencies, such as sudden drops in blood pressure or anesthesia complications.
• 7. Tell me about a time when you had to resolve a conflict with a colleague in the operating room.
  In an operating room, teamwork is crucial, and conflicts may arise. I once had a disagreement with a surgeon regarding a patient's treatment plan. I calmly expressed my concerns and presented evidence-based research to support my position. We were able to reach a mutually agreed-upon decision that ensured the best outcome for the patient.

Behavioral Questions

• 8. How do you handle difficult patients?
  I understand that patients may be anxious or irritable before and after surgeries, and I make sure to remain empathetic and professional at all times. I listen actively and address their concerns while also following established protocols and maintaining a safe and sterile environment.
• 9. Tell me about a time when you made a mistake in the operating room.
  In the past, I accidentally left a surgical instrument behind in a patient's body after a procedure. I immediately informed the surgical team, and we were able to retrieve it without causing any harm. I learned the importance of double-checking instruments and triple-checking counts before and after surgeries.
• 10. How do you handle a situation where a patient's condition changes suddenly during surgery?
  I stay calm and quickly communicate with the surgeon and other team members. I provide necessary assistance and support for the patient while maintaining the sterile field and following established protocols. I also monitor the patient closely and report any changes to the team.
• 11. Tell me about a time when you had a difficult interaction with a surgeon.
  I once had a situation where a surgeon was rude and dismissive towards me during a surgery. I remained professional and focused on the task at hand, while also addressing the surgeon's behavior privately later on. I have learned to handle such situations by staying calm and communicating effectively and respectfully.

Situational Questions

• 12. How would you handle a situation where an urgent surgery is needed, but the necessary equipment is not available?
  I would quickly communicate the situation to my superiors and explore alternative options while also following established protocols. If possible, I would also assist with obtaining the necessary equipment from other departments or facilities.
• 13. Describe a time when you had to handle a medical emergency outside of normal working hours.
  I once received an emergency call while on-call for the weekend. I immediately followed established protocols and coordinated with the necessary departments to arrange for an emergency surgery. I stayed present and communicated effectively with the patient and their family, ensuring their safety and providing comfort during a stressful situation.
• 14. How do you prioritize your tasks during a busy surgery schedule?
  I prioritize my tasks based on the urgency of each patient's condition and the procedures scheduled for the day. I communicate with my team and delegate tasks as needed to ensure efficient use of our time and resources. I also make sure to take breaks and manage my time effectively to avoid burnout and maintain top performance.
• 15. How would you handle a conflict between a patient's family and the surgical team during a sensitive surgery?
  In such a situation, I would provide emotional support to both the patient's family and the surgical team while maintaining a calm and professional demeanor. I would also communicate effectively and address any concerns or questions to ensure the best outcome for the patient.

Cultural Fit Questions

• 16. How do you maintain professionalism and confidentiality in a sensitive medical environment?
  As an ODP, I understand the importance of maintaining professionalism and confidentiality to protect patient privacy and trust. I follow all HIPAA regulations and communicate with my team to ensure we uphold these values at all times.
• 17. What qualities do you believe are important for working in a fast-paced and high-stress medical environment?
  I believe it is crucial to remain calm under pressure, have excellent communication and teamwork skills, and be able to think critically and make quick decisions. I possess all these qualities and strive to continually improve and adapt in a fast-paced environment.
• 18. How do you handle a situation where a colleague is not following established protocols?
  I would address the situation privately with the colleague and remind them of the importance of following established protocols for the safety and well-being of our patients. I would also report the incident to my superiors if necessary.
• 19. What motivated you to become an Operating Department Practitioner?
  I have always been passionate about healthcare and helping people. After discovering the role of an ODP and the important role they play in the operating room, I knew it was the perfect fit for me. I am motivated by the opportunity to make a positive impact on patients' lives and support the surgical team in providing top-quality care.
• 20. How do you handle stress and burnout in a demanding job like an ODP?
  I prioritize self-care and make sure to take breaks and manage my time effectively. I also utilize stress-management techniques, such as exercise, mindfulness, and seeking support from friends and family. Additionally, I make sure to communicate any concerns or challenges with my superiors to ensure a positive work-life balance.