Operating Department Practitioner vs Registered Nurse
How Operating Department Practitioner and Registered Nurse compare on pay, training, study load, shifts and demand.
| Compare | Operating Department Practitioner | Registered Nurse |
|---|---|---|
| Band | Band 5 | Band 5 |
| Salary | £32,073–£39,043 | £32,073–£39,043 |
| Time to reach | 2–3 years (DipHE/BSc) | 3–4 years (degree or apprenticeship) |
| Study intensity | High | High |
| Shift work | Medium | High |
| Competition | Medium | Medium |
| Long-term progression | Medium | High |
| Demand | High demand | Growing |
Which is right for you?
Operating Department Practitioner or Registered Nurse — which pays more?
Operating Department Practitioner sits on Band 5 (£32,073–£39,043); Registered Nurse on Band 5 (£32,073–£39,043).
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Indicative — England 2026/27 Agenda for Change basic pay, excludes High Cost Area Supplements, unsocial-hours and overtime. Typical timings are national averages, not guarantees. Not financial advice. See data sources.