The goal of the Orthopedic Technician program is to provide Career Technical Education opportunities in the healthcare field. The program provides the skills to work in a medical clinic, medical office, or hospital setting. The program offers hands-on training in Orthopedic skills such as the application and removal of plaster and synthetic casts, assisting others to safely use walking aids such as canes, walkers, and crutches, fitting and adjusting equipment as necessary, and setting up and making adjustments to certain types of traction under the guidance of a physician. In addition, Orthopedic Technicians fabricate splints and manage other medical technology, including braces and cast removal. Students earning the Orthopedic Technician Certificate may be qualified to assist orthopedic surgeons in the care of patients with injuries or diseases of the musculoskeletal system. After completing the required courses, there is a 192-hour internship.

Students must have CPR certification and undergo background checks and drug screening before completing their internship. While certification isn’t required in order to work as an orthopedic technician, earning a professional credential can lead to additional career opportunities. The National Board for Certification of Orthopedic Technologists, Inc. offers the Orthopedic Technologist Certified (OTC) and Orthopedic Technologist Surgery Certified (OT-SC) credentials. Prior to enrolling in this program, it is recommended that students have experience working as a medical assistant or have completed the Clinical Assistant program requirements as this program builds upon those skills and knowledge base. Possible employment settings for students earning the Orthopedic Technician Certificate of Achievement include hospitals, large medical clinics, orthopedic practices, and skilled nursing facilities.

Program Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this program a student will be able to:

🗸 Apply and remove plaster and fiberglass casts.
🗸 Assist patients with the safe use of walking aids such as canes, crutches, and walkers.
🗸 Fit and adjust orthopedic traction equipment and braces under the guidance of a physician.
🗸 Fabricate and apply splints as directed by the physician.