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What does an Orthopedic Technician do?

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Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 3 min read

An orthopedic technician is a medical professional who assists orthopedic surgeons with patient care before, during, and after surgery. They may also work in orthopedic clinics to help patients with rehabilitative exercises and other treatments. Orthopedic technicians typically have an associate's degree in orthopedic technology.

Orthopedic Technician job duties include:

  • Assist patients with exercises and stretching techniques
  • Help apply casts, braces, and other devices
  • Take X-rays and MRI scans
  • Help remove casts, braces, and other devices
  • Clean and sterilize equipment
  • Keep accurate records of patient treatments
  • Educate patients and families about injury prevention and treatment options
  • Assist surgeons during orthopedic procedures
  • Fit patients for prosthetic devices
  • Perform administrative duties such as scheduling appointments and ordering supplies

Orthopedic Technician Job Requirements

An Orthopedic Technician is a medical professional who assists Orthopedic Surgeons with patient care before, during, and after surgery. They also work with patients who have orthopedic injuries or conditions to help them regain movement and function. To become an Orthopedic Technician, one must complete a postsecondary educational program and obtain certification. Many Orthopedic Technicians also have previous experience working as a certified nurse assistant, physical therapy aide, or in another medical role.

Orthopedic Technician Skills

  • X-ray
  • MRI
  • CT scan
  • Arthroscopy
  • Joint replacement
  • Trauma
  • Osteoporosis
  • Sports medicine
  • Pediatrics
  • Geriatrics
  • Fractures
  • Sprains

Related: Top Orthopedic Technician Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become an Orthopedic Technician

An orthopedic technician is a medical professional who assists orthopedic surgeons in the diagnosis and treatment of patients with musculoskeletal disorders. Orthopedic technicians typically have an associate’s degree in orthopedic technology. Some states require certification for orthopedic technicians.

Orthopedic technicians work closely with orthopedic surgeons to provide patient care before, during, and after surgery. They also work with other members of the surgical team, such as nurses and anesthesiologists. Orthopedic technicians prepare patients for surgery by taking their medical history and performing physical examinations. They also help the surgeon during surgery by passing instruments and providing other assistance as needed. After surgery, orthopedic technicians help patients recover by providing instructions on how to properly care for their incisions and any new devices, such as artificial joints.

Orthopedic technicians must be able to work well under pressure and have excellent attention to detail. They must also be able to follow instructions carefully and be able to communicate effectively with both surgeons and patients.

Related: Orthopedic Technician Resume Example

Related: Orthopedic Technician Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

Editorial staff

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Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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