What are the responsibilities and job description for the Orthopaedic Technician position at CAO?
The Orthopedic Technician is responsible for application and removal of casts including complex casting and orthopedic splints and devices. The position has a significant amount of patient contact and is typically involved in the team assessment of patient needs and fitting/finishing services of patients including pediatric patients.
This position requires a fundamental knowledge of technical work with orthopedic bracing and casting related activities. Positions allocated to this level are responsible for application, modification, repair and firring of a wide variety of casts, splints, and braces. Casting activities include application of upper and lower extremity casts from simple to complex using a variety of materials; arrange, assemble, and adjust braces and splints; and remove sutures and staples. The Orthopedic Technologist will also assist in stocking and ordering of supplies. Clinical work is performed under the general supervision of a physician or advanced practice provider (physician’s assistant or nurse practitioner).
Major Responsibilities
- Application of casts using a variety of materials including plaster and synthetic casting materials and high and low temperatures plastics, with minimal or no supervision.
- Performs appropriate documentation and patient education related to cast or splinting and as directed by physician or advanced practice Provider.
- Application and adjustment of orthopedic devices such as braces, splints, and compression stockings.
- Instruct patient on use, adjustment, and adaptation and care of device.
- Arrange for take home supplies for patients.
- Obtain equipment for physicians and other providers on request.
- Fit patient and instruct on use of crutches and canes.
- Clinic Team Member Responsibilities
- Communicate effectively with patients/families and the clinic team in a manner that promotes positive working relationships.
- Within defined standards and with minimal supervision, problem solves and makes decisions about clinic functions and patient care issues as an active team member.
- Complete a charge document for every clinic encounter, assuring it is complete, accurate. Provides the completed form to the clerical staff for entry on the day of the encounter.
- Participate in Quality Assurance/Improvement activities to meet Clinic Service Standards and other improvements.