Program Overview

The PTT certificate trains learners to support surgical teams before, during, and after procedures. Emphasis is on asepsis, theatre workflow, instrument handling, patient safety, and effective communication within the perioperative environment.

Duration & Study Pattern

• Duration: 9–12 months (theory + skills lab + clinical attachment)
• Mode: Full-time / Part-time / Weekend
• Delivery: Lectures, demonstrations, simulations, supervised theatre exposure
• Safety: IPC and OSH standards integrated across all sessions

Indicative Modules

• Introduction to Perioperative Care & Theatre Workflow
• Asepsis & Sterile Fields: principles, draping, contamination control
• Patient Safety & Positioning: pressure points, nerve protection, DVT basics
• Surgical Instruments: identification, handling, passing techniques
• CSSD & Sterilization: decontamination, packaging, autoclave cycles, indicators
• Surgical Counts & Specimen Handling: sponges, needles, sharps, documentation
• Electrosurgery & Theatre Hazards: ESU safety, smoke evacuation, fire safety
• Anesthesia & Airway Basics (for theatre assistants): monitoring awareness
• Theatre Logistics: lists, scheduling, turnover, traffic flow
• Waste Management & Linen Handling
• Communication & Teamwork: WHO Surgical Safety Checklist
• Records & Ethics: confidentiality, consent pathways, incident reporting

Theatre Skills (Competency-Based)

• Scrub, gowning & gloving; maintaining sterile field
• Preparing trolleys & sets; sterile draping of patient and equipment
• Safe instrument passing; retraction & tissue handling support
• Performing accurate surgical counts; discrepancy management
• Room turnover: cleaning, disinfection, and set-up for next case
• Basic equipment checks: suction, cautery, lighting, oxygen

Instruments & Equipment

• General surgery sets: scalpels, forceps, scissors, clamps
• Specialty basics: OB/GYN, ortho, ENT, urology (intro level)
• Electrosurgical unit (ESU) & smoke management
• Suction units, diathermy pads, theatre lights, operating tables
• Autoclaves, ultrasonic cleaners, washers (CSSD)
• Sterilization indicators, wraps, trays & tracking

Assessment

• CATs (40%): practical OSCEs (asepsis, counts, trolley set-up), short tests
• Final Practical (60%): integrated theatre scenario with logbook verification
• Minimum 80% attendance and satisfactory clinical supervisor reports

Entry Requirements

• KCSE D+ (or institutional equivalent); mature entry considered
• Medical fitness & vaccination per facility policy
• Good conduct and professionalism

Career & Progression

• Operating Theatre Assistant / Technician (under supervision)
• CSSD Technician, Theatre Stores Assistant
• Progression: Diploma in Perioperative Theatre Technology and related programs

Frequently Asked

Is this a licensing program?
This certificate prepares support personnel; graduates work under licensed professionals per facility policy.

Do I need prior hospital experience?
Not required. Clinical exposure is provided during attachment.

Uniform?
Yes—scrubs, closed shoes, and PPE are required (details after admission).