Orthopedic technicians perform tasks such as applying and removing casts.
Orthopedic technology is an allied health care field. An orthopedic technologist provides assistance to an orthopedic surgeon. Tasks performed by an OT include removing casts, fitting walkers and canes and applying simple braces or prosthetics. The National Board for Certification of Orthopaedic Technologists oversees certification for OTs.
Eligibility for Certification
Three routes are available for eligibility for OT certification. One is for a prospective OT to complete two years of on-the-job training in orthopedic technology. This must be full-time training under the supervision of an orthopedic doctor. Another route is for a candidate to graduate from an approved orthopedic technology program -- but no more than one year prior to taking the certification exam. The final route to eligibility is certification as an athletic trainer with at least six months or 1,040 hours of employment under physician supervision in the area of orthopedic technology.
Types of Certification
The NBCOT offers two certifications. An Orthopedic Technologist Certified is qualified to assist in treating orthopedic patients. The Orthopedic Technologist-Surgery Certified serves as a first assistant to an orthopedic surgeon and perform duties under the supervision of the surgeon. The OTC certification must be earned to be eligible for certification as an OT-SC.
Features of Certification
The orthopedic technology certification examination has 165 questions, and candidates have three hours to complete the test. The exam covers topics such as casting, patient assessments, surgery and traction. Candidates for certification submit a paper application and physician verification. Photo ID is required to gain access to the test site at the time of the exam.
Continuing Education and Recertification
Certification for OTCs and OT-SCs is valid for six years. Orthopedic techs can renew their certification by earning 120 continuing education credits. The credits are earned by taking courses, attending seminars, or contributing to a book or journal. If certification lapses, the OT must take an examination to become recertified. The National Association of Orthopaedic Technologists maintains a listing of continuing education courses on its website.
Tags: orthopedic technology, Board Certification, continuing education, eligibility certification, National Board, National Board Certification, Orthopaedic Technologists
