Operating Department Practitioner's research priorities: A Delphi study.

Area of Science:

• Allied Health Professions Research
• Operating Department Practice

Background:

• The 2022 Allied Health Professions' Research and Innovation Strategy highlights the need to understand research visions within allied health professions.
• The College of Operating Department Practitioners' affiliation with the Council for Allied Health Professions Research necessitates defining the profession's research priorities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish consensus-driven research priorities for the Operating Department Practitioner (ODP) profession.
• To align ODP research with national strategies and professional development goals.

Main Methods:

• A three-round Delphi study was conducted with Operating Department Practitioners.
• Data collection utilized questionnaires distributed via College of Operating Department Practitioners and social media networks.
• Participant numbers decreased from 49 in Round 1 to 17 in Round 3.

Main Results:

• Thirty-one research priorities were identified through consensus among ODPs.
• Priorities were ranked using mean scores, percentage agreement, and coefficient of variance.
• Five key themes emerged: Workforce Transformation, Education, Patient Safety and Experience, Innovation and Technology, and Theatre Culture.

Conclusions:

• The consensus-based Delphi study successfully co-created research priorities for ODPs.
• Identified themes will guide professional development, enhance patient care, and support funding applications.
• Establishing clear research priorities is crucial for the ODP profession's advancement and integration within allied health research.