Perioperative Theatre Technology (Level 5)

Perioperative Theatre Technology Level 5 is a competency-based healthcare programme designed to equip learners with the knowledge, practical skills and professional attitudes required to support surgical teams in an operating theatre environment.

The course focuses on preparing and maintaining the operating theatre, supporting safe surgical procedures, preventing infections, handling and maintaining theatre instruments and equipment, preparing patients for surgery, and providing perioperative technical services.

Learners receive practical training in theatre operations, patient safety, infection prevention and control, surgical instruments, sterilization procedures, theatre equipment and professional healthcare practices. The programme also develops communication, teamwork, digital literacy and workplace skills essential for working in a healthcare environment.

Students undertaking Perioperative Theatre Technology Level 5 will develop skills in:

1. Operating Theatre Safety

• Apply operating theatre safety precautions.
• Identify and manage potential hazards in the theatre.
• Follow safety procedures during surgical procedures.
• Promote the safety of patients, healthcare workers and theatre personnel.

2. Infection Prevention and Control

• Understand infection prevention principles.
• Apply aseptic techniques.
• Prevent and control healthcare-associated infections.
• Practice proper cleaning, disinfection and sterilization procedures.

3. Surgical Instruments and Equipment

• Identify different surgical instruments and their uses.
• Prepare instruments for surgical procedures.
• Handle, clean and maintain theatre instruments.
• Assist with the preparation and arrangement of theatre equipment.

4. Theatre Preparation

• Prepare the operating theatre before surgical procedures.
• Arrange theatre equipment, instruments and supplies.
• Ensure the theatre environment is clean, safe and ready for procedures.
• Assist in maintaining theatre standards throughout operations.

5. Patient Preparation and Support

• Assist with preparing patients for surgery.
• Apply appropriate patient handling techniques.
• Support patient safety and comfort.
• Understand basic perioperative patient care procedures.

6. Sterilization and Decontamination

• Understand sterilization processes.
• Prepare instruments for sterilization.
• Apply appropriate decontamination procedures.
• Handle sterile and contaminated items safely.

7. Perioperative Theatre Technical Services

• Support surgical teams with technical theatre requirements.
• Prepare equipment and instruments required for procedures.
• Assist in maintaining efficient theatre workflow.
• Provide technical support within the operating theatre under appropriate supervision.

8. Communication and Teamwork

• Communicate effectively with patients and healthcare professionals.
• Work as part of a multidisciplinary surgical team.
• Apply professional communication skills in the healthcare environment.
• Maintain patient confidentiality and professional conduct.

9. Professional Ethics and Work Practices

• Apply healthcare professional ethics.
• Understand patient rights and confidentiality.
• Demonstrate responsible workplace behaviour.
• Follow relevant policies, procedures and professional standards.

10. Digital Literacy

• Use basic digital technologies in the workplace.
• Apply digital skills to healthcare-related tasks.
• Manage and communicate information using appropriate digital tools.

11. Employability Skills

• Develop teamwork and problem-solving skills.
• Demonstrate good work ethics.
• Develop professional communication skills.
• Apply workplace safety and professional practices.

Practical Training

The programme emphasizes hands-on competency development. Students gain practical experience in theatre preparation, surgical instrument handling, infection prevention and control, sterilization, equipment preparation, patient handling and other perioperative theatre support activities.

Clinical or industrial attachment in a recognized healthcare facility can provide learners with exposure to real operating theatre environments and professional healthcare teams.

Career Opportunities

After completing Perioperative Theatre Technology Level 5, graduates can pursue opportunities in healthcare facilities such as:

• Public and private hospitals
• Operating theatres
• Surgical centres
• Medical centres
• Specialized surgical units
• Healthcare facilities
• Theatre sterilization departments

Potential roles may include:

• Perioperative Theatre Technician
• Operating Theatre Support Technician
• Surgical Equipment Assistant
• Theatre Sterilization Assistant
• Theatre Circulation Assistant
• Patient Care Support Assistant

Career titles and scope of practice depend on the applicable regulatory and institutional requirements.

Progression

Perioperative Theatre Technology Level 5 can provide a progression pathway to Perioperative Theatre Technology Level 6, subject to the applicable entry requirements. The Level 6 qualification is also listed within the TVET-CDACC framework.