Perioperative Theatre Technology (Level 6)

Perioperative Theatre Technology Level 6 is a competency-based healthcare programme designed to equip learners with the technical, clinical-support and professional skills required to work effectively in operating theatre environments.

The course prepares students to support surgical teams before, during and after surgical procedures. Learners are trained in operating theatre preparation, patient safety, infection prevention and control, surgical instrument handling, sterilization, theatre equipment management, clinical support services and theatre administration.

The programme combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills and clinical exposure, enabling learners to develop the competence required to contribute to safe, efficient and well-organized surgical services. The qualification is recognized within Kenya's TVET-CDACC framework.

Students undertaking Perioperative Theatre Technology Level 6 will develop skills and knowledge in:

• Operating Theatre Safety – Apply safety precautions and procedures to protect patients, healthcare workers and the surgical environment.
• Infection Prevention and Control – Learn aseptic techniques, infection prevention practices, cleaning, disinfection and sterilization procedures.
• Surgical Instruments – Identify, prepare, handle, clean, maintain and safely store surgical instruments and apparatus.
• Perioperative Theatre Technical Services – Prepare and support the operating theatre, equipment, instruments and supplies required for surgical procedures.
• Patient Preparation and Support – Learn procedures for preparing and supporting patients before, during and after surgery.
• Surgical Team Support – Develop the skills required to work effectively with surgeons, nurses, anaesthesia teams and other healthcare professionals.
• Theatre Equipment Management – Understand the safe use, care and maintenance of operating theatre equipment and apparatus.
• Clinical Services – Participate in perioperative clinical services under appropriate supervision and within professional scope.
• Theatre Administration – Learn documentation, record keeping, communication, scheduling and other administrative responsibilities within the operating theatre.
• Resource Management – Develop skills in managing theatre supplies, instruments, equipment and other resources efficiently.
• Medical-Legal and Professional Ethics – Understand professional conduct, confidentiality, patient rights and ethical responsibilities in healthcare.
• Communication Skills – Develop effective communication and teamwork skills for clinical and healthcare environments.
• Health Education and Promotion – Gain knowledge and skills for supporting health education and promotion activities.
• Psychosocial Support – Learn appropriate ways of supporting patients and their families within the perioperative environment.
• Entrepreneurial Skills – Develop basic entrepreneurship and workplace skills relevant to healthcare practice.
• First Aid and Basic Healthcare Procedures – Develop foundational skills for responding to emergencies and supporting safe patient care.

Practical Training

The course emphasizes hands-on learning, allowing students to develop practical competence in theatre preparation, sterile techniques, instrument handling, equipment checks, infection prevention, documentation and clinical theatre procedures. Clinical exposure may be undertaken in recognized healthcare facilities with operating theatre services.

Career Opportunities

Graduates can pursue opportunities in:

• Hospital operating theatres
• Private and public hospitals
• Surgical centres
• Specialized healthcare facilities
• Medical centres
• Perioperative and surgical departments
• Healthcare support services
• Medical equipment and surgical instrument companies

Graduates work as part of multidisciplinary healthcare teams supporting safe and efficient surgical services.