Pūmanawa Tika, Tūranga Tika – Right Skill, Right Role
Posted on July 16, 2026
Wakefield Hospital’s OTA Upskilling Initiative Strengthens Theatre Workforce
Wakefield Hospital has successfully implemented an innovative workforce redesign initiative aimed at improving theatre efficiency, supporting Registered Nurses (RNs), and strengthening service sustainability in high-complexity surgical specialties.
The project was developed in response to ongoing workforce pressures within orthopaedic spine and neurosurgical theatres, where persistent shortages of experienced RNs had increased workload demands and reliance on higher-cost staffing models.
Recognising an opportunity to optimise skills across the theatre team, Peri-operative Manager Rae Billing, alongside Theatre Education Coordinator Bianca Clarence and Theatre Coordinators Ernest Dahiroc and Mandy Herrera, launched the OTA Upskilling Project in March 2026. The initiative focuses on training Operating Theatre Assistants (OTAs) to safely undertake delegated, non-nursing responsibilities, allowing RNs to spend more time on critical clinical duties.
The programme equips OTAs to support tasks such as patient positioning and manual handling, limb holding during procedures, theatre preparation, and equipment support. Training includes hands-on learning in theatre environments alongside formal education through the Elevify OTA course.
Using a structured Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) approach, the project was piloted within orthopaedic spine and neurosurgical services before being evaluated for wider application.
The initiative has already delivered measurable benefits, including:
- Reduced RN staffing requirements per case through an optimised team model
- Improved ability for RNs to take scheduled breaks
- Reduced workload pressures and physical strain on nursing staff
- Improved theatre efficiency and workflow
- Enhanced teamwork and role clarity
- Cost efficiencies through a more sustainable workforce mix
Feedback from theatre teams has been overwhelmingly positive, with staff reporting improved job satisfaction and greater capacity to focus on specialised nursing responsibilities.
Beyond the operational benefits, the programme is also creating opportunities for professional growth and career development. One of the first OTAs to participate in the programme has excelled in his expanded role and found a new sense of purpose through working alongside surgeons and theatre teams.
Inspired by the work he has observed and the opportunities created through the programme, he is now preparing an application to medical school. His journey demonstrates how investing in workforce development can not only strengthen services today but also help inspire the next generation of healthcare professionals.
As the project progresses toward its six-month evaluation, the team is exploring opportunities to expand the model into additional specialties, including urology. Future plans include developing a standardised OTA competency framework and establishing a clearer career development pathway for OTAs.
The OTA Upskilling Project demonstrates how innovative workforce solutions can support both staff wellbeing and operational excellence. By ensuring the right skills are applied to the right roles, Wakefield Hospital is building a more resilient, sustainable theatre service while continuing to deliver safe, high-quality care for patients.
The success of the initiative reflects the vision and leadership of Rae Billing and The Theatre Leadership Team, whose commitment to developing people and strengthening workforce capability is helping shape the future of perioperative care at Wakefield Hospital.
