Job Qualifications 

EDUCATION – Required 

High School Diploma or equivalent (G.E.D.), may include specialized or vocational courses 

LICENSURE – Preferred 

AHA Heartsaver 

Orthopedic Technician certification 

EXPERIENCE – Required 

1 year 

Basic nursing skills, e.g., one year as nursing attendant, emergency technician experience, Armed Services Medical Corps or Orthopedic Technologist. 

EXPERIENCE - Preferred 

Orthopedic and Pediatric experience 

SKILLS - Required 

Excellent verbal and written communication skills. 

Strong customer service orientation. 

SKILLS - Preferred 

Orthopedic and Pediatric experience 

PHYSICAL WORKING CONDITIONS 

Continuously stand/walk or lift/handle/carry material or equipment of moderate weight (20 to 50 lbs). Examples: Nurses, LPNs, and Physical Therapists. 

ENVIRONMENTAL WORKING CONDITIONS 

Located in an environment with regular exposure to moderate physical discomfort from fumes or odors, temperature extremes, loud noises and bright lights. Examples: mail clerks, material handlers and food service workers. 

HAZARDS 

OSHA Category 1 

Tasks that involve exposure to blood, body fluids, tissues, and other potentially infectious materials. 

POSITION & UNIT ACCOUNTABILITIES

Clinical and Technical Competencies: Require Physicians Order  

Application of Casts and Splints:

• Demonstrates proper selection of casting and splint materials (plaster, fiberglass, thermoplastic). including the appropriate selection of materials, stockinette, padding, and trimming. 
• Applies casts and splints safely, securely, and in a manner that ensures proper immobilization.
• Maintains correct alignment and positioning according to physician instructions. Trims and finishes rough edges of casts, leaving skin intact.
• Cleans skin following cast application.
• Bivavles/univalves casts according to physician's orders, without injuring skin or destroying cast. Wedge Cast (only with Physician). 

Removal of Casts and Splints:

• Operating cast saws safely and effectively. Monitors patients for discomfort or complications during removal. Provides post-removal skin care instructions to patients. 

Monitoring:

• Monitors neurovascular status (circulation, sensation, movement) before and after cast application.
• Identifies signs of complications (pressure sores, skin irritation, compartment syndrome).
• Inspects edges of casts for smoothness, and for signs of pressure and tightness.
• Reports abnormal findings to supervising clinicians promptly.
• Provides information about skin integrity, cast fit and other data collected, to the appropriate professional, nurse or physician. 

Standard Precautions & Aseptic Technique:  

• Infection Control - Understands principles of aseptic technique; observes the basic principles of aseptic technique.
• Demonstrates competency, safety, and use of Standard Precautions. Complies with policies and procedures concerning infection control and safety to maintain a safe environment for patients, visitors, and staff.
• Follow infection control and safety procedures. Perform correct handwashing and use of alcohol-based sanitizers before/after patient care.
• Keeps workspace clean and orderly. Complies with dress code policy and maintains a professional appearance (with natural fingernails neatly manicured and length of less than 1/4 inch long).
• Use the appropriate PPE. Role may require assistance in the operating, cast technician is aware  

Communication:  

• Effectively communicates with various departments to disseminate and receive information as requested. 
• Explains procedures, care instructions, and potential complications to patients and caregivers in a clear, empathetic manner.
• Provides education on cast care, hygiene, and activity restrictions.
• Responds to patient questions and concerns effectively.
• Utilizes computerized systems to support efficient operational management. 

Documentation & Information Management:

• Maintains accurate files, records, and reports. such as accurate documentation in the electronic health record. 
• Maintains the patient's medical records according to regulatory requirements and HSS policy.
• Upholds patient privacy and confidentiality (HIPAA compliance).
• Follows hospital policy regarding sensitive patient information.
• Follows through on charges for service as required. 

Equipment Handling & Enviornmental Safety:

• Cleans, maintains, and stores casting and splinting tools and materials.
• Ensures sterilization and infection control standards are followed.
• Wear protective apparel including goggles and gloves during the preparation of the application and cleanup of the casting process.
• Maintains environment free of clutter and safe for the patients and their families.
• Ensure safe disposal of sharp instruments and casting materials following hospital policy.
• Cleans, maintains, and stores casting and splinting tools and materials. 

• Provides and maintains a safe environment for patients, family and staff.