Casting Technician, Orthopaedics (Galveston) in Galveston, Texas at University of Texas Medical Branch

JOB DESCRIPTION:

The Casting Technician provides skilled clinical support in the application, adjustment, and removal of a wide range of orthopedic immobilization devices, including casts, splints, and braces. This role operates within orthopedic clinics, providing hands-on support to physicians in the treatment of musculoskeletal injuries. The position requires technical ability, patient-care skills, and knowledge of anatomy and orthopedic procedures. The technician also ensures safe, effective immobilization, educates patients on cast care, durable medical equipment and wound care as needed. The position supports the delivery of orthopedic patient care by implementing prescribed casting and immobilization treatments in accordance with established clinical protocols and provider orders.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:

Minimum Qualifications:

• High School diploma or general education degree (GED)
• Two years of directly related orthopedic technician work experience OR
• Completion of one or more of the following combinations:
  • Orthopedic Tech/Prosthetics Tech Program and zero years of casting experience
  • Medical Assistant program and 1 year of casting experience
  • Nurse Assistant program and 1 year of casting experience
  • Medical Corpsman and 1 year of casting experience
  • EMT program and 1 year of casting experience
  • Current enrollment in professional nursing program with completion of introductory nursing course work and zero years of casting experience

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Perform Orthopedic Immobilization Procedures (Physician-Directed)
  - Apply fiberglass and plaster casts
  - Fit upper and lower extremity braces
  - Apply splints and create molds for custom braces
  - Remove sutures and staples
• Support Clinical Care and Patient Flow
  - Assist with patient movement and workflow in outpatient clinic settings
  - Provide patient explanations during vital signs and technical procedures
• Perform Basic Clinical Tests and Treatments
  - Safely prepare medications/injections as directed
  - Measure and record intake/output as ordered
• Provide Direct Patient Care Under RN or Physician Direction
  - Assist with treatments appropriate to training
  - Recognize and communicate patient needs, priorities, and potential crises
• Maintain Accurate Documentation and Communication
  - Document interventions clearly, concisely, and legibly
  - Communicate relevant patient information to appropriate providers
• Maintain Equipment, Supplies, and Clinical Environment
  - Inspect equipment for safety, expiration, and usability
  - Clean and return equipment to proper locations
• Report items needing repair or replacement; restock rooms and carts
• Demonstrate Professional Customer and Peer Relations
  - Communicate courteously and professionally
  - Address patient/family concerns appropriately
  - Maintain positive rapport with patients, families, and coworkers
• Support Patient Rights and Confidentiality
  - Advocate for patients and families
  - Maintain confidentiality and seek guidance for ethical concerns
• Promote Efficiency and Cost-Effective Practices
  - Prioritize tasks effectively
  - Use time, equipment, and supplies responsibly
  - Demonstrate initiative and flexibility
• Contribute to Teamwork, Safety, and Continuous Improvement
  - Assist team members and remain composed in emergent situations
  - Participate in meetings, education, and quality improvement activities
  - Maintain required credentials and engage in professional development

Marginal or Periodic Functions:

• Adheres to internal controls and reporting structure.
• Performs related duties as required.

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES

• Knowledge of anatomy and orthopedic procedures
• Hands-on training instruction
• Think critically and solve problems
• Able to stand, lift, or move equipment
• Ability to follow instructions and multitask
• Using equipment safely
• Documenting accurately

LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS OR CERTIFICATIONS

Required:

• BLS certification

Preferred:

• Certified Orthopedic Technician

WORKING ENVIRONMENT/EQUIPMENT:

• Standard hospital, clinical and/or office environment.
• Related supplies for a selected patient population, mechanical devices, and computer equipment.
• May be required to work extended shifts in situations deemed necessary by the Nurse Manager and/or Nurse Supervisor.
• Able to stand, lift, or move equipment.
• May be exposed to such occupational hazards as communicable diseases, bloodborne pathogens, ionizing and non-ionizing radiation, hazardous medications and disoriented or combative patients or others.

SALARY:

Commensuarate with experience.

Equal Employment Opportunity

UTMB Health strives to provide equal opportunity employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, national origin, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, genetic information, disability, veteran status, or any other basis protected by institutional policy or by federal, state or local laws unless such distinction is required by law. As a Federal Contractor, UTMB Health takes affirmative action to hire and advance protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.