How to Be Orthopedic Equipment Technician - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Dec 23, 2022 / 6 Minutes Read / By Albert

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Orthopedic equipment technicians play a vital role in helping to improve the quality of life for patients with musculoskeletal disorders. These technicians help to ensure that orthopedic equipment such as braces, prosthetics, and orthotics are properly fitted and maintained. Without the expertise of these technicians, patients would be unable to receive the necessary treatments for their conditions.

By providing their services, these technicians can contribute to improved mobility and reduce pain associated with musculoskeletal conditions. In addition, orthopedic equipment technicians can also help to reduce medical costs by ensuring that the equipment is properly maintained and functioning properly. As a result, patients receive quality care and treatment with fewer complications, leading to improved overall quality of life.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a high school diploma or equivalent. Orthopedic equipment technicians must have a high school diploma or equivalent to begin pursuing this career.
Take courses in anatomy, physiology, and medical terminology. Orthopedic equipment technicians should possess knowledge of anatomy and physiology, as well as an understanding of medical terminology. These courses can be taken at a local college or online.
Gain experience working in a medical setting. Orthopedic equipment technicians should have experience working in a medical setting before applying for jobs in this field. This could include working as a medical assistant or even volunteering in a hospital or clinic setting.
Get certified in Orthopedic Equipment Technician. Certification is not required, but it is recommended as it demonstrates a level of expertise and knowledge that employers seek out in candidates. The National Board for Orthopedic Technology offers a certification program for technicians.
Find an entry-level position as an Orthopedic Equipment Technician. Once certified, the next step is to seek out entry-level positions as an orthopedic equipment technician. Job postings can be found on job search engines, medical staffing websites, and through medical facilities directly.
Advance your career by taking additional courses and gaining experience. As an orthopedic equipment technician becomes more experienced in the field, they may choose to take additional courses or pursue certification in specialized areas. Additional experience can also be gained by working in different medical facilities or taking on more responsibility in their current position.

As an Orthopedic Equipment Technician, it is essential to stay up-to-date and competent in the field. This can be achieved by continuing to educate oneself on the latest trends, technology, and practices in the industry through attending seminars and conferences, reading industry publications, and engaging with peers and mentors. Furthermore, staying informed of changes in relevant laws, regulations, and standards related to the field is crucial in order to ensure compliance and safety.

staying active in professional organizations helps to build relationships and provides the opportunity to collaborate with those who share similar interests. By staying up-to-date and competent, an Orthopedic Equipment Technician can stay on top of their game and provide the best quality service to their clients.

You may want to check Orthopedic Medical Supply Technician, Orthopedic Scheduling Coordinator, and Orthopedic Front Desk Receptionist for alternative.

Job Description

Inspect and repair orthopedic equipment such as wheelchairs, walkers, and other assistive devices.
Perform preventative maintenance to ensure equipment is functioning properly and safely.
Fabricate new orthopedic equipment components or modify existing ones as needed.
Educate patients and families on the proper use of equipment.
Keep accurate records of repairs and maintenance.
Troubleshoot and diagnose equipment problems.
Maintain inventory of supplies and parts.
Assemble and install new orthopedic devices.
Coordinate with doctors, physical therapists, and other medical personnel to ensure the proper selection of orthopedic equipment for each patient.
Ensure compliance with safety regulations and industry standards.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of orthopedic equipment and its components
Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, manuals and schematics
Understanding of electrical and mechanical systems
Proficiency in the use of hand tools, power tools and test equipment
Ability to troubleshoot, diagnose and repair equipment
Ability to order parts, maintain inventory and document all repairs
Excellent customer service skills
Knowledge of safety protocols and regulations
Excellent communication skills
Ability to work independently and as part of a team

Orthopedic equipment technicians are essential healthcare professionals who ensure the proper functioning of specialized medical equipment. They must have a thorough understanding of orthopedic procedures and equipment to be successful. One of the most important skills for an orthopedic equipment technician is the ability to troubleshoot and fix any equipment issues that may arise.

This requires a detailed knowledge of the different types of orthopedic equipment, their components, and how they work together. In addition, an orthopedic equipment technician must have excellent communication skills, as they must be able to explain complex technical issues to surgeons and other medical professionals. Finally, it is essential for an orthopedic equipment technician to possess good organizational skills, as they must be able to keep track of the various pieces of equipment and their maintenance schedules.

All of these skills are essential to ensuring that the orthopedic equipment functions properly and safely.

Orthopedic Insurance Biller, Orthopedic Physical Therapist Assistant, and Orthopedic Prosthetist/Orthotist are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have working with orthopedic equipment?
How familiar are you with the different brands and models of orthopedic equipment?
What repairs have you performed on orthopedic equipment?
How do you troubleshoot issues with orthopedic equipment?
Are you comfortable using diagnostic software to analyze malfunctions in orthopedic equipment?
Describe a situation where you had to repair a difficult or complicated issue with orthopedic equipment.
How often do you stay up to date on new techniques, technologies, and products related to orthopedic equipment?
How do you ensure that the orthopedic equipment you are working on is safe and effective?
What safety protocols do you follow when working on orthopedic equipment?
How do you handle customer complaints and concerns related to orthopedic equipment?

Common Tools in Industry

Welder. A device used to join two pieces of metal together (e. g. an arc welder).
Grinder. A tool used to shape or smoothen metal or other hard materials (e. g. an angle grinder).
Riveter. A tool used to create a permanent joint by joining two pieces of material with a rivet (e. g. a pneumatic riveter).
Hammer. A tool used to drive nails or other hard objects into a material (e. g. a claw hammer).
Screwdriver. A tool used to drive screws into a material (e. g. a Phillips head screwdriver).
Drill. A tool used to make holes in a material (e. g. an electric drill).
Saw. A tool used to cut through a material (e. g. a jigsaw).
Tape Measure. A device used to measure length (e. g. a 25-foot tape measure).
Torque Wrench. A tool used to tighten or loosen nuts and bolts (e. g. a 1/2 inch torque wrench).
Pliers. A tool used to grip, twist, or cut a material (e. g. needle-nose pliers).

Professional Organizations to Know

American Orthotic and Prosthetic Association (AOPA)
American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics and Pedorthics (ABC)
International Society for Prosthetics and Orthotics (ISPO)
The Institute for Rehabilitation Science and Engineering (IRSE)
The Canadian Association of Prosthetists and Orthotists (CAPO)
National Commission on Orthotic and Prosthetic Education (NCOPE)
Orthotic and Prosthetic Group of America (OPGA)
National Association of Orthotic & Prosthetic Technicians (NAOPT)
American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists (AAOP)
The National Center for Prosthetics & Orthotics (NCPO)

We also have Orthopedic Pathologist, Orthopedic Prosthetics Technician, and Orthopedic Physicians Liaison jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Prosthetics. Artificial limbs and other body parts used to replace those that have been lost or damaged.
Orthotics. Devices used to support, align, prevent, or correct deformities or to improve the function of movable parts of the body.
Assistive Technology. Technology designed to help people with disabilities perform tasks independently.
Rehabilitation Equipment. Devices used to help people with disabilities regain physical function and independence.
Mobility Aids. Products that make it easier for people with physical impairments to move around safely and efficiently.
Adaptive Equipment. Products that allow people with disabilities to use regular objects or activities more easily and comfortably.
Diagnostic Technology. Tools used to identify and assess medical conditions in order to determine appropriate treatment options.
Surgical Instruments. Tools used in the medical field to perform various surgical procedures.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an Orthopedic Equipment Technician?

An Orthopedic Equipment Technician is a healthcare professional who specializes in the fit, maintenance, and repair of orthopedic braces, prosthetic devices, and other assistive and orthopedic equipment.

What duties does an Orthopedic Equipment Technician perform?

An Orthopedic Equipment Technician performs many different duties, including taking measurements for custom-fitting orthopedic braces and other assistive devices, training patients on how to use their equipment correctly, making adjustments to orthopedic braces and prosthetic devices, and performing repairs and maintenance on orthopedic braces and prostheses.

What qualifications are needed to become an Orthopedic Equipment Technician?

To become an Orthopedic Equipment Technician, a person must typically have a high school diploma or equivalent, complete a technical training program in orthopedic bracing and prosthetic fabrication, and obtain certification from a recognized organization such as the National Board for Certification in Orthotics & Prosthetics.

What is the average salary of an Orthopedic Equipment Technician?

The average salary of an Orthopedic Equipment Technician is around $46,000 per year.

Where do Orthopedic Equipment Technicians typically work?

Orthopedic Equipment Technicians typically work in hospitals, orthopedic clinics, or other medical facilities. They may also work in home health care settings or private practice offices.