COURSE DESCRIPTION

An orthopedic medicine (diploma) or technology (certificate)  course teaches students how to diagnose, treat, and manage musculoskeletal injuries and disorders. Students learn how to assess, design, and fit orthopedic appliances, such as prosthetics and orthotics. The course aims to train students on how to test patients for bone issues, understand care of patients with musculoskeletal disorders, use and maintain medical equipment, apply basic and advanced life support skills , study emergency invasive procedures assist in orthopedic surgical procedures, learn about fracture and plaster techniques

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Casting and splinting: Applying and removing casts and splints to immobilize fractures and injuries according to physician instructions. 
• Patient assessment: Taking patient history, vital signs, and documenting relevant details regarding injuries and conditions. 
• Minor procedures assistance: Assisting the orthopedic surgeon with minor procedures like suture removal, wound care, and dressing changes. 
• Brace fitting: Fitting and adjusting orthopedic braces and other supportive devices to ensure proper alignment and comfort. 
• Traction management: Setting up and managing traction systems for patients with specific orthopedic needs 
• Patient education: Providing instructions to patients on proper use of casts, braces, and other orthopedic devices 
• Radiology interpretation: Interpreting basic orthopedic X-rays to assist with treatment planning 
• Inventory management: Maintaining and ordering necessary orthopedic supplies and equipment 
• Emergency response: Recognizing and responding to urgent orthopedic situations 

CAREER PROGRESSION

Certificate in orthopedic technology, diploma in orthopedic medicine, higher national diploma in orthopedic medicine

EMPLOYMENT

Orthopedic clinics, Hospitals – orthopedic surgery departments, and Rehabilitation centers.