Job Summary:
Assists orthopedic provider to apply, adjust, and remove casts, splints, slings, and orthopedic appliances. Maintains materials and supplies needed to perform orthopedic procedures.

Essential Responsibilities:

Performs patient care procedures including care of wounds, removal of sutures, preparation of traction pins, and assistance to provider with their insertion.

Applies and adjusts casts, slings, and related orthopedic appliances as directed and under general supervision of an orthopedic provider; may apply splints as a first aid measure before evaluation.

Operates a fluoroscan to obtain patient x-rays as directed and under general supervision of an orthopedic provider only if holder of a limited radiology technologist certificate.

Removes casts or appliances as directed.

Responds to patient reports of swelling, pain, and related concerns and refers to provider as appropriate.

Teaches patients how to move with casts. Instructs patients regarding movement and exercise, walking with crutches, care of cast, etc. according to nursing practice protocols.

Assists patients to and from the clinical area as necessary.

Cleans and sterilizes instruments.

Orders, stocks, and maintains tools, equipment, and supplies used in orthopedic department.

Answers telephone, makes appointments, and provides administrative support in orthopedic department.

Performs other related duties as directed.

Communicates relevant patient information to the provider and healthcare team to ensure effective care flow.

Basic Qualifications: Experience

Minimum two (2) years of experience as an orthopedic cast technician, OR completion of a training course as a medical corpsman, OR completion of the Kaiser Permanente sponsored cross training program with successful documented demonstration of identified competencies required.

Education

Annual training in radiation safety required.
High School Diploma OR General Education Development (GED) required.

License, Certification, Registration

Basic Life Support

Additional Requirements:

Proficiency in the use of applicable computer software.
In order to work effectively with patients, must have effective interpersonal and communication skills and be able to stand, walk, bend, lift at least 50 pounds, hear, speak, and see.

Preferred Qualifications:

Certification as an orthopedic technician preferred.