SUMMARY
Under general supervision, applies, adjusts and removes casts and splints and assists with minor orthopedic procedures as directed by an orthopedic surgeon. Fits and adjust canes, crutches and walkers, and gives patients instruction on the use of these walking aids. Performs designated clinical and administrative functions within the orthopedic department.
GENERAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES (Describe all of the responsibilities of the job here, including the essential functions of the job, without which the job can’t be performed.)
Triages for priority of care and types of appointments. Evaluates urgency of drop-ins. Screens phone calls.
Compiles and monitors orthopedic schedules and appointments. Prior to appointments, orders copies of relevant outside films that have been taken such as bone scans, CT scans, and outside x-rays. Pulls films for daily schedules. Obtains operation notes, ER reports, consults, etc.
Assists patients in making follow-up appointments and consultation appointments with other specialists such as CT scans, MRIs, ultrasounds, bone scans, EMGs, physical therapy and other outside orthopedic appointments. Works closely with other departments to arrange tests and studies as needed (e.g., PT and radiology departments).
Instructs patient in pre and post-operative care and procedures, including the completion of pertinent paperwork for surgery.
Assists during minor orthopedic related surgical procedures, including the assembly and setup of special equipment. Takes vitals for pre-ops (e.g., blood pressure, pulse and weight). May take necessary measurements (i.e. grip strength, leg lengths).
Assists in orthopedic surgeon in reduction of fractures or dislocations. Changes dressings and cares for wounds. May remove staples and/or sutures from post-op patients.
Fits and educates patients in use of crutches, slings, knee braces, canes, and other orthopedic devices. Adjusts equipment as needed. Also educates patients in simple PT exercises.
Applies casts. Covers injured areas with specified protective materials such as stockinette bandages, gauze, or rubber pads, preparatory to cast application. Wets, wraps, and molds plaster bandages around area of fracture. Trims plaster. Instructs patients on how to care for cast.
Removes whole and broken casts and alters position of cast to change setting of patient's limb or body part as directed.
Assembles wooden, metal, plastic, or plaster material to make orthopedic splints.
Orders orthopedic equipment and supplies. Keeps records of supplies given out to patients. Instructs patients as to where to go for orthotics
Cleans and stocks patient exam and treatment rooms.
Covers for medical assistants and surgical assistants as needed.
Performs other duties as assigned.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
None
EDUCATION/LICENSES/CERTIFICATIONS
High School diploma or equivalency certificate (e.g. GED, HiSET, TASC Test) from an accredited institution or governmental unit required. Completion of Orthopedic Training Program and Certification by the National Board for Certification of Orthopedic Technologists (NBCOT) preferred. CPR certification. American Heart Association Basic Life Support (BLS) required. Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) may be required based on specialty.
EXPERIENCE
2-4 years of related experience required. Medical Assistant experience preferred.
SKILLS
Familiar with standard concepts, practices, procedures and terminology related to general orthopedic practice. Ability to recognize obvious fractures on x-rays. Solid skills in applying, removing and repairing all types of casts. Demonstrated communication skills with the ability to work effectively with patients, peers, nursing and medical staff. Intermediate computer skills, including Microsoft office, various databases and use of internet for health information retrieval.
OTHER REQUIREMENTS
Able to use all electronic tools and applications relevant to the performance of the duties of the position, including but not limited to phone, keyboard, computer and computer applications. Performs all job functions in compliance with applicable federal, state, local and company policies and procedures. Accesses only the minimum necessary protected health information (PHI) for the performance of job duties. Actively protects the confidentiality and privacy of all protected health information they access in all its forms (written, verbal, and electronic, etc.) taking reasonable precautions to prohibit unauthorized access. Complies with all Client's and departmental privacy policies, procedures and protocols. Follows HIPAA privacy guidelines without deviation when handling protected health information
WORKING CONDITIONS / PHYSICAL DEMANDS
Busy office environment with frequent deadlines and interruptions
Education: High School
Certification: CPR
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