Orthopedic Technician, Full-Time Days, Bronson Methodist Hospital

Bronson Healthcare•Kalamazoo, MI

9d•Onsite

About The Position

The Orthopedic Technologist is responsible for all traction and cast application, assisting physicians in T & EC and nursing units; keeping abreast of changes in orthopedic equipment and procedures and implementing change and teaching as indicated for optimal orthopedic services. Employees providing direct patient care must demonstrate competencies specific to the population served. Work which produces levels of mental/visual fatigue which are typical of jobs that perform a wide variety of duties with frequent and significant uncontrollable deadlines. Work may include the operation of and full attention to a personal computer or CRT up to 40 percent of the time. Involves regularly lifting of bulky or moderately heavy weights (i.e., up to 50 pounds), and occasionally assisting with heavier tasks or expending the equivalent effort in pushing, pulling, or otherwise handling material, equipment, and other objects.

Requirements

High school diploma or general education degree (GED) required.
2 years of direct care experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience for entry-level positions required.
2 years of experience in a health care delivery system preferred, especially as PCA, EMT, surgical assist or military required.
Obtain BLS Certification by the end of the orientation period. Maintain BLS certification.
Basic medical terminology required or completed within one year
Basic knowledge of anatomy and physiology required or completed within one year
Knowledge of Orthopedic patient care procedures/equipment
Radiology equipment and interpretation experience
Excellent interpersonal skills to comfort patients
Evaluation of equipment for problems, safety and effectiveness
Analytical skills to interpret data from equipment and computers
Ability to gather data and set appropriate plan of action, in coordination with Medical staff
Ability to prioritize and work independently

Nice To Haves

NAOT Certification preferred
ASOP Certification preferred

Responsibilities

Provides information, direction, and assistance as appropriate to patients and visitors of the unit.
Conduct bi-daily round throughout the facility to check the status of patient with orthopedic apparatus, and make adjustment as necessary or as ordered by the Orthopedic Surgeon
Apply cast and splints, using accepted guide lines and appropriate treatment practices throughout the facility, and make adjustments as necessary for patient comfort and safety.
Apply or assist in the application of soft goods throughout the facility while maintaining appropriate standard of care.
Assist in the application of specialty item such as Halo ring, vest set, and continuous passive motion knee exerciser at the direction of the surgeon.
Application and training of T&EC PCA in the proper application of orthopedic softgoods obtained thru central distribution
Proper application of specialty orthopedic softgoods not obtained thru central distribution such as Rehab knee and ankle braces, Aspen collar, and specialty Orthotic braces
Monitor the delivery, application and final check of orthopedic braces supplied to patient from outside vendors.
Set-up, applies, and maintains varies tractions on patient age all age groups under the supervision of the Orthopedic Surgeon. Be able to safely remove and re-apply traction temporarily in order for the patient to be transported to other departments in the facility to perform detailed testing.
Set-up and accurately operate a mobile Fluoroscopy unit (C-Arm) to assist the Orthopedic Surgeon in evaluation of closed reduction, or to ensure the proper placement of a K-Wire pin while maintaining Radiological safety.
Assist in the conscious sedation of a patient by applying counter traction as required by the Orthopedic Surgeon, while observing the patient for any adverse reaction to the anesthesia and taking appropriate actions.
Basic knowledge of radiological positioning techniques, understanding of standard safety practices, and understands basic interpretation of radiographs in order to assist the Physician in providing appropriate treatment.
Perform physical therapy after hours and weekends on patient post-operatively.
Act as a surgery assistant in the T&CE setting in order to assist the Orthopedic Hand Surgeon in a sterile environment in order to perform a specialized repair, or reconstruction of a patient’s hand or digit.
Provides skilled technical care according to unit-specific and generic structure standards, protocols and procedures, prescribed medical interventions, and nursing guidelines.
Provides assistance in the operating room for casting procedures; applying and/or removing splints, casts, etc.,
Participates in patient education, for example, providing instruction in the appropriate use of crutches, daily care of casts, reinforcing physical therapy instruction, etc.
Insures appropriate orthopedic equipment sterile/non-sterile is stocked and ready for use.
Performs regular preventative maintenance on all orthopedic equipment.
Maintains records and documentation of activities; prepares reports and performs related clerical duties, as required.
Is competent in computer charges and documentation using appropriate orthopedic terminology.
Assumes responsibility for own growth and development; by attending staff meetings and Bronson educational opportunities related to Orthopedic Technology.