Trainees manage an operating room: Practical training with responsibility
From January 26 to 29, things got particularly exciting in the operating room at the University Clinic for Ear, Nose, and Throat Medicine, Head and Neck Surgery in Magdeburg. As part of the project “Trainees Run an Operating Room,” nine third-year trainees took on key tasks in everyday operating room work under close professional supervision. Six trainees in anesthetic technical assistance (ATA) and three trainees in surgical technical assistance (OTA) took part.
The aim of the project was to prepare the trainees in a targeted and practical manner for their final practical exam and their future everyday working life. In a protected, realistic setting, they were able to take on responsibility, actively help shape processes, and learn through experience. In addition, the project supported professional learning growth ahead of the final exams and promoted interdisciplinary collaboration.
The trainees worked in rotating small groups to gain insights into different areas of responsibility and operating room situations. The OTA trainees took on tasks related to sterile surgical assistance and worked as operating room assistants. The ATA trainees were responsible for preparing and cleaning up the anesthesia workstation, assisting with anesthesia, helping with patient positioning, and performing monitoring tasks under supervision, among other things.
All activities were always carried out under the direct supervision of experienced specialists from the operating room and anesthesia team. This allowed the trainees to work independently while relying on close professional guidance.
Photo: The commitment of all those involved was honored with a certificate. Photographer: Ramon Kubatzki / UMMD
The project week concluded with a joint final presentation by the trainees. All participants received a certificate in recognition of their commitment.
Director of Nursing Ms. Michelfeit-Schaper emphasizes the importance of the project for training at Magdeburg University Hospital: "Taking responsibility, growing as a team, and actively shaping everyday life in the operating room—that's exactly what our trainees have impressively demonstrated in this project. I was very impressed by their commitment, professionalism, and confident handling of the diverse tasks in the operating room. The positive response confirms how important it is to support our young talent, place trust in them, and give them responsibility. My thanks go to everyone involved – this project is a strong sign of quality, motivation, and the future in the operating room."
Prof. Dr. Martin Durisin, Clinic Director of the University Clinic for Ear, Nose, and Throat Medicine, Head and Neck Surgery, also emphasizes the special team spirit: “In the final round with the ATA and OTA trainees, it quickly became clear what sets this team apart: cohesion, positive energy, and a genuine desire to make a difference together. The difficulties faded into the background, leaving behind motivation, team spirit, and a joy in the challenge. This is exactly how the future is created.”
Prof. Dr. Ulrich Vorwerk, Deputy Director of the University Clinic for Ear, Nose and Throat Medicine, Head and Neck Surgery, adds from an operational perspective: "From the perspective of a surgeon who worked with the trainees, the conclusion is extremely positive. The young colleagues were highly motivated and very well prepared. They contributed significantly and demonstrated their skills and knowledge effectively. I also enjoyed it very much."
The project was made possible by the close and cross-departmental cooperation between the University Clinic for Ear, Nose and Throat Medicine, Head and Neck Surgery, the Clinic for Anesthesiology and Intensive Care, the Nursing Management, the Operating Room Management, the practical instructors, and the teachers and school management of the Training Center for Health Professions (AZG). Together, they created a framework that focused on training on an equal footing, mutual trust, and a high degree of practical relevance.
The “Trainees Run an Operating Room” project impressively demonstrates how modern training is practiced at Magdeburg University Hospital—with commitment, responsibility, and a focus on the future.
Dynamic content of the page: Content gallery Trainees run an operating room, client ummd