An orthopedic technician is an expert in applying casts.
An orthopedic technician (sometimes called an orthopedic technologist) assists physicians and nurses with the care and treatment of orthopedic patients. An orthopedic tech specializes in casting, bracing and splinting and is an expert in applying plaster and synthetic casts. According to the National Association of Orthopaedic Technologists, an orthopedic tech can skillfully remove casts and knows the general principles of traction techniques.
Job Tasks
The job duties of an orthopedic technician might include fitting and applying pre-operative braces, crutches and other soft goods; helping prepare and apply casts and orthopedic appliances; and removing sutures, casts and splints. The tech may also assist with orthopedic procedures, including wound care, aspirations, minor surgical procedures and fracture reductions.
The tech may give patients instructions concerning cast care and the use of orthopedic appliances. The tech may prepare or set up traction as requested by the physician and can assess patients in traction, detect deficiencies in the equipment and make adjustments as needed. In addition, the tech may clean and stock the cast and soft goods room, order special supplies or equipment, and coordinate collection of patient data.
Skills and Abilities
Orthopedic techs need a strong knowledge of anatomy, physiology and medical terminology and expertise in the different materials and equipment involved in casts, splints and braces. The job requires physical effort, including the abilities to sit or stand for an extended time and to push, pull, squat, twist, turn, lift, bend, stoop and reach overhead. An orthopedic tech must also work effectively under stress or emergency situations.
An orthopedic technician also requires interpersonal and communication skills, including being empathetic, tactful and courteous, and an attention to detail and the ability to prioritize responsibilities.
Training
The minimum training for an orthopedic technician is a high school diploma followed by completion of a training program from a hospital, community college, technical school or the military. Some colleges offer an Associate of Applied Science in Orthopedic Technology.
Certification
The National Board for Certification of Orthopaedic Technologists offers certification for orthopedic technicians. Certification requires passing a 150-question exam that covers assessing patients; applying casts, splints and braces; applying and adjusting traction; and surgical procedures and protocols.
Salary
Education Portal reports that to a survey by the National Association of Orthopaedic Technologists found the average starting salary is $13 to $15 an hour for non-certified orthopedic technicians and $17.80 to $19.80 an hour for those who are certified. According to Indeed.com, the average annual salary for an orthopedic technician in the U.S. is $43,000.
Tags: orthopedic technician, casts splints, Orthopaedic Technologists, orthopedic tech, applying casts, Association Orthopaedic, Association Orthopaedic Technologists
