Orthopaedic Practitioner (Plaster Technician)

Job summary

The purpose of this role is to work as a member of the Orthopaedic Outpatient team demonstrating expertise in casting and plastering techniques under appropriate guidance. The role will provide technical and professional support in other clinical areas including the Emergency Department and inpatient wards when required.

The post holder will be responsible for the provision of a high standard of care including undertaking specialist casting, bracing and splinting procedures. The post holder will be expected to work unsupervised using their own initiative and make appropriate clinical decisions in line with ongoing training and qualification.

The post holders will also be responsible for their own continued professional development in line with the British Orthopaedic Association (BOA) guidelines.

Main duties of the job

1. To comply with all standards in the BOA Casting Standards and use these standards to guide their practice, identify opportunities for improvement, and evaluate change.
2. To use evidence based practice to assess, develop and implement care.
3. To be competent in the application, adjustment and removal of all types of casts as prescribed by an orthopaedic clinician.
4. To participate in the assessment, planning and evaluation of care for the patient who is requiring casting or splinting referring to the clinician as required.
5. Assess different initial clinical conditions and provide advice to clinicians on appropriate course of action and materials to be used.
6. Promptly alert the nurse in charge / department manager of any issues or risks within the clinical setting.
7. To provide expert specialist technical support & advice and a casting service for the Trust covering Fracture and elective clinics, Theatres, Wards and the Emergency Departments across adult and children's services.
8. To provide advice on the application of casts for specialist conditions i.e. total contact casting and wound care for diabetic patients as well as serial casting for paediatric toe-walking conditions (subject to further training).
9. Gain competency through orthopaedic surgeon training and supervision to become autonomous in K-wire removal.

About us

At Harrogate and District NHS Foundation Trust we provide outstanding care to both our patients and our staff. We support staff through benefits, health and wellbeing initiatives and opportunities for personal and professional development.

• An inclusive and supportive culture our Trust encourages staff to bring their whole selves to work and active Staff Networks identify areas for improvement.
• Staff Recognition - as well as regular appraisals, we recognise staff with our Making a Difference, Team of the Month Awards & Colleague Recognition Awards
• Employee Support and wellbeing - we have a comprehensive Employee Assistance Programme, counselling service and fast track physiotherapy service for employees.
• Staff Benefits - We have a range of staff benefits and schemes to support staff health, engagement, wellbeing and inclusion.

Employer details

Employer name

Harrogate and District NHS Foundation Trust

Address

Harrogate Hospital

Lancaster Park Road

Harrogate

HG2 7SX

Employer's website

https://www.hdft.nhs.uk/ (Opens in a new tab)

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Employer details

Employer name

Harrogate and District NHS Foundation Trust

Address

Harrogate Hospital

Lancaster Park Road

Harrogate

HG2 7SX

Employer's website

https://www.hdft.nhs.uk/ (Opens in a new tab)

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