Orthopedic Technician

This position provides for the application, removal and adjustment to the correct fitting of orthopedic splints, soft goods, casts, as well as traction and continuous passive motion devices as ordered. Assists orthopedic physicians, works primarily in the emergency room, orthopedic department, neuro-science department, rehab department and other nursing departments. This position serves the following patient age categories: pediatric, adolescent, adult, geriatric.

1. Performs patient care. EP= Assists in orientation of new Orthopedic Technicians. Rounds on patients daily for those using orthopedic equipment. Provides staff education in appropriate use of braces, orthotics and other orthopedic equipment at regularly scheduled sessions. Identifies and suggests resources to best meet the patient/department needs. Expert at individualizing care and motivates others to provide optimal patient care. SP= Demonstrates comprehensive techniques, application of and contraindications of various treatment techniques used by the Orthopedic Technicians to include casting, traction, splinting, total contact casting, basic orthotics and Continuous Passive Motion (CPM). Considers age, physical conditions and doctor orders for each patient. ND= Delays in meeting patient/customer needs. Needs reminders/prompting. Plan of care not always followed resulting in outcomes not being met. NR=Completing orientation or in role less than 6 months at the end of the performance period. Making expected progress toward performing all items outlined in the MWA.
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2. Completes all required documentation. EP= Coaches and mentors others in documentation requirements. Contributes as a team member to improve documentation processes. SP= Documents care given to patients appropriate to the area serviced within the framework provided. Documents the precise splint or casting application and any preexisting conditions. Communicates any untoward reactions to nursing personnel. ND= Requires prompting, reminders and direction to meet patient/department documentation needs. Documentation sometimes contains errors, missed deadlines and requires follow up. NR= Completing orientation or in role less than 6 months at the end of the performance period. Making expected progress toward performing all items outlined in the MWA.
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3. Assists in managing the departments operational budget. EP= Motivates team to anticipate supply needs and explores cost savings while safely and effectively meeting needs. Always processes paperwork accurately and prior to deadlines. SP= Prepares appropriate paperwork in obtaining orthopedic braces and appliances from outside sources. Orders supplies using standard floorstock and non-stock items. Completes patient charge forms correctly and in a timely manner. ND= Needed supplies are sometimes unavailable. Budget variances occur. Deadlines for processing paperwork are sometimes missed or inaccurate. NR= Completing orientation or in role less than 6 months at the end of the performance period. Making expected progress toward performing all items outlined in the MWA.
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EDUCATION:

High School Diploma or equivalent, Required
Preferred: NBCOT (National Board for Certification of Orthopaedic Technologists Inc)

EXPERIENCE:

Required: An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.
Preferred: At least 1-2 years work in related field of nursing, emergency medicine, or MD?s office Knowledge of patient care basics, anatomy, trauma, and illness. Training is on the job.

LICENSURE/CERTIFICATION/REGISTRY/LISTING:

REQUIRED:
BLS (CPR) - American Red Cross or AHA Healthcare Provider
PREFERRED