Perioperative core generic skills and values – anaesthetic support and post anaesthetic care clinical practice
This module is designed to enhance the knowledge and clinical competencies of registered healthcare professionals new to the perioperative environment or the UK processes involved in anaesthetic support and post-anaesthetic care. It equips participants with the essential skills required to assist the Anaesthetic Team in delivering safe and effective anaesthetic care, as well as in the management of patients during the post-surgical recovery phase.
Participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of their professional scope within both anaesthetic and post-anaesthetic contexts. The module explores the collaborative dynamics between roles such as the Anaesthetist, Anaesthetic Assistant, Operating Department Practitioner (ODP), Anaesthetic Nurse, and members of the Post Anaesthetic Care Team, as well as within the broader Multidisciplinary Team (MDT).
Key themes
Evidence-based practice and clinical decision-making
Identification and management of anaesthetic and post-surgical recovery risks and complications
Ethical practice and patient-centred care
Promotion of a culture of safety, teamwork, and collaboration
Emphasis on human factors and non-technical skills across all areas of perioperative care
This multidisciplinary module is particularly supportive for those new to the perioperative environment, fostering a strong foundation in best practices and quality care across the perioperative and surgical continuum.
Certification pathway
To obtain the full Postgraduate Certificate (60 credits), participants must successfully complete this module in conjunction with PCPH3055: Perioperative and Surgical Care. If taken as a standalone module, participants will receive a transcript awarding 30 credits, which may contribute towards a future academic award or Continuing Professional Development (CPD).
Important note
Completion of this module alone does not confer eligibility to practice as an Anaesthetic Assistant (Anaesthetic Nurse or ODP). To achieve this qualification, successful completion of PCPH3/5017 and PCPH3/5018 is required.
Academic and clinical requirements
Learning outcomes
Critically evaluate the underpinning evidence and clinical decision-making relating to the principles and practice of anaesthesia and post anaesthetic care.
Identify the complications and risks associated with anaesthesia support and post anaesthetic care, appraising appropriate strategies to manage such events.
Critically evaluate the application of human factors, interpersonal and communication skills, teamwork, workplace culture and non-technical skills linked to anaesthesia support and post anaesthetic care.
Recognise the physiological changes that occur in a deteriorating patient and identify appropriate interventions applying knowledge of anatomy and physiology.
Demonstrate safe and effective clinical skills in relation to post anaesthetic care and in undertaking anaesthetic support.
Assessment
- 3,000 word essay
- Presentation
- Practice Assessment Document (PAD)
Students require a Clinical Practice Mentors, who must relate to anaesthetics and post anaesthetic care practice.
Entry requirements
Must have completed a first level degree or equivalent as deemed by the Nursing Midwifery Council (NMC) register or Health Care Professions Council (HCPC).
Registered practitioner with the NMC or HCPC
Have proof of support from their line manager.
Have undertaken an induction to their perioperative department to understand the environment they will undertake their practice in.
How to apply
Online application forms and guidance for application process
Key information
Module Category: PCPH
Module Code: 5056
Module Credits: 30
Module Level: 7
Semesters
Semester 2
All sessions take place from 9am-4pm on Wednesdays
- 28 January 2026 (online)
- 4 February 2026 (on campus)
- 18 February 2026 (online)
- 25 February 2026 (online)
- 11 March 2026 (online)
- 18 March 2026 (online)
- 20 April 2026 (on campus)
- 29 April 2026 (online)