Did you know that the human musculoskeletal system is the organ system that gives you the ability to move using your skeletal and muscular systems? Going into orthopedics, you’ll learn all about the musculoskeletal system.
Are you considering becoming an orthopedic technician, but you’re not sure what to expect/if it’s right for you? In this article, explore how to become an orthopedic technician, and what’s required. Read on to explore this complete guide and you’ll become an orthopedic technician in no time.
What Is an Orthopedic Technician?
If you’re thinking of becoming an orthopedic technician, you’ll help orthopedic surgeons with patients who have diseases or injuries of the musculoskeletal system. You’ll often be preparing surgical procedures and fracture tables in the operating room. for more check Orthopedic Urgent Care.
Orthopedic technicians will also go over the risks of the procedure with the patient, and remove any casts. You might also be responsible for teaching patients how to use crutches or canes. Fabricating splints and managing braces and prosthetic limbs are part of the job duty as well.
Education Requirements
In order to become an orthopedic technician, you’ll need at least a high school diploma first. It’s a good idea to look into different MSK ultrasound courses as well. While it’s not required to obtain training or a certificate, it’ll help you stand out against others who are applying for the same position.
Different programs and courses will cover medical terminology, joint and muscle assessments, x-rays and patient care, fracture complications, and anatomy. Your coursework will include clinical education, research, lectures, lab work, and class discussions.
Responsibilities:
- Setup hospital bed traction equipment
- Applying cast to the patient
- Fix patient dressings and bandages
- Placing splints and casts
How Much Do Orthopedic Technicians Make?
Depending on the location, an orthopedic technician makes between $14.78-$25.80 per hour. There are different tools you can search for that can tell you how much you’re worth.
Earn Certifications
To become an orthopedic technician, it’s a good idea to earn as many certifications as you can. You can explore and earn the Orthopaedic Technologist Certified credential that’s through the National Board for Certification of Orthopedic Technologists.
There are education requirements to obtain this certification. If you don’t have them, you might be able to receive the certification with work experience.
Where Will I Work?
You can find yourself in a role at a hospital, physician’s office, or clinic. You’ll work directly with orthopedic surgeons. This is a great career to enter since job openings are on the increase. As an Orthopaedic Technician, you can also explore travel nursing opportunities with PRN Nurses, which has more than hundreds of facilities all over the States.
CPR Training
Hands-on coursework is normally required to become an orthopedic technician, including training in cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Before you’ll be hired, they might require to see you have a certification with CPR through the American Heart Association.
Other Careers
There are other careers out there that are similar to orthopedic technicians such as nursing and medical assisting. For nursing, you can become a CNA (certified nursing assistant), LPN, or RN.
As a medical assistant, you’ll normally work in medical offices or clinics. You’ll take care of clinical and administrative tasks such as scheduling appointments, answering phones, and obtaining a patient’s personal and historical information.
Nursing
Nursing fields vary based on your education and experience. To get your feet wet and explore if this career is right for you, you can start out as a CNA. You’ll need to receive at least your high school diploma or GED. Some states allow you to become a CNA at 16.
CNA
As a CNA, you’ll work underneath a nursing professional. You’ll take care of patients who are disabled or injured. When a patient comes in, you’ll take their vital signs such as their temperature, blood pressure, and respiration.
CNAs are also in charge of dressing, bathing, and helping patients with toilet care. You might also help out with skin and hair care, shaving, and dental care.
Cleanliness is a top priority, so you’ll need to take care of laundry and bed linens. It’s a good career for those who are caring since you’ll interact with patients quite often.
LPN
LPN requirements vary from state by state so it’s a good idea to research what’s necessary for your state. First, you’ll need your GED or high school diploma, and be at least 18.
You might have completed the educational requirements while you were in high school for this position. Different educational programs will have certification programs you can take to stand out from the crowd. Look into what educational programs are required in your state.
RN
Each state will vary for RN’s. While you can become an RN with a 2-year degree, many are starting to obtain their bachelor’s as well. Some courses you might be required to take include humanities, history, chemistry, English, statistics, microbiology, anatomy and physiology, and algebra.
After taking the education requirements, you’ll then need to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination to receive the state license to practice. You’ll take courses and receive experience in mental health, nursing care, communication, pharmacology, and family health. After becoming an RN, you can go on to become a nurse practitioner and take the necessary coursework for that.
Exploring How To Become an Orthopedic Technician
Now that you’ve explored how to become an orthopedic technician, you should have a better idea if it’s the right role for you or not. You should also have a better understanding of the requirements for the job.
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