Orthopedic Technician Training Programs

This article discusses orthopedic technician training and the job profile for the profession. Orthopedics is a field of study which examines the musculoskeletal system.

Orthopedic technician training qualifies individuals to assist other medical staff in the treatment and care of patients with musculoskeletal related problems. The role of an orthopedic technician, sometimes referred to as an orthopedic technologist, can involve bracing, splitting, and casting fractured bones, damaged tendons, and ligaments. It is possible to practice as an orthopedic technician after attending a one year certified program or an associate degree course. There are programs relating to this field run by junior colleges as well as specialist medical schools. To enroll on a course, it may be required to have already received CPR or first aid certification. To ensure that the maximum number of openings is made available upon graduation, it is important to seek out a school which has been accredited through the National Association of Orthopedic Technologists.

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Orthopedic Technician Education and Training

Depending upon the medical establishment were employment is found, an orthopedic technologist can be called on to fit pre-operative braces, prepare and administer casts and appliances, as well as removing sutures, splints and casts. The job description may also involve assisting surgeons with orthopedic procedures such as fracture reductions and wound care.

A technologist specialized in orthopedic care may also be asked to offer instructions to patients in the correct usage of various appliances and casts. When traction is required, they can be called upon to assist patients and ensure correct protocols are followed. Certain menial tasks may be undertaken, for example collecting patient data and ensuring the cleanliness of orthopedic appliance storage areas.

Radiation Therapist Careers

Radiation therapists operate a linear accelerator machine which directs high energy x-rays to specific cells on a cancer patient. This responsibility requires a thorough knowledge of the machine and how it affects the human body. The patient and the accelerator must be positioned for treatment, then the treatment must be monitored. Safety rules must be followed at all times to avoid radiation exposure.

In addition the therapist keeps records, develops the patient's treatment plan, together with the physician, and explains the procedure to the patient. Operating the linear accelerator, which contains the x-ray equipment, correctly is an extremely important part of the job. Any necessary adjustments must be made and the patient monitored to watch for adverse reactions. During this phase of treatment the therapist will be working with medical radiation physicists.

Expected Salary and Projected Career Growth

According to the United States Department of Labor, there is currently a high demand for specialists with qualifications relating to the field of orthopedics. It is an area in which there are equal opportunities in both rural locations and big metropolises.

According to a survey carried out in 2008 by the National Association of Orthopedic Technologists, the average hourly wage for new graduates with orthopedic technician training was between $13 and $15 per hour for non certified individuals, whereas for those persons that are certified, the level was between $17.70 and $19.80 per hour. The median yearly income in 2009 stood at $43,100. The actual level will depend in part on the type of employer as well as the location.