Orthopaedic Plaster Technician

Job overview

We are looking for an enthusiastic Plaster Technician to join us. As part of the Orthopaedic Clinic team, you will demonstrate high standards of expertise in casting and plastering techniques.  To provide optimum quality and professional support within clinical areas, wards, theatres and Accident and Emergency.  To participate in a training program regarding plastering, casting and orthotics for the multidisciplinary team within Trauma and Orthopaedics and Accident and Emergency.  To ensure the effective development of the plastering/orthotics service within the Trauma and Orthopaedic Directorate We are looking for self-motivated candidates who can work independently and as part of a team. To be computer literate, be able to guide and help colleagues. Monthly audits, Rotas, and working closely with Staff Nurses delivering care. We would like the applicant to be conscientious, efficient and reliable. The successful candidates will need to motivated and hardworking and, flexible.

Main duties of the job

ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES

To ensure that a comprehensive plaster service is provided to meet the needs of patients throughout the Trust. Coordinate day to day running of the plaster room service.   To assess the patient to determine the most suitable application of plaster or splintage.    To apply and remove as required, all types of casts demonstrating a working knowledge of the use of research in developing clinical standards and protocols. To clinically supervise qualified & unqualified plaster room staff.   To ensure limbs are correctly positioned before and during casting to maintain the safety and comfort of the patient and the optimum outcome.    To perform manipulation of fractures prior and during cast application as requested by orthopaedic medical staff.    To document patients’ treatments to ensure that accurate records are maintained within the department and the patients’ notes. To be responsible for the documentation of plastering/casting/orthotic information,and be aware of the necessity for effective written and verbal communication.

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

To liaise with members of the health care team and patients’ families to discuss care appropriate to individual patients.

To promote patient education to ensure after care is satisfactory and any associated problems are dealt with effectively.    To assess patients following the application of a cast to ensure their social needs are met, referring to the clinic nurse or appropriate discipline/agency as required.    To promote good practice and innovations in line with relevant research, participating in reviewing and implementing evidence based practice.    To promote and have an understanding within the trust in the establishment and monitoring of protocols, procedures and guidelines relevant to the department.    To promote and maintain effective communication both within the department and the Trust.    To lead the service as an autonomous practitioner providing all aspects of plasters techniques.

To be actively involved in the management of the plaster room services, taking control and managing effectively, supervise all stock ordering and control. Liaise with Reps and trail new products, gathering evidence to discuss with the consultants concerning products     To support both senior and junior members of staff demonstrating commitment to the Directorate.     To apply dressings to wounds and remove sutures and clips to provide a seamless service and enhance patient care. Have an understanding of complex wounds, demonstrate and have knowledge of tissue Viability, Provide competencies, also K-Wire removal competencies.       Help with Virtual Fracture Clinic, giving advice to Patients over the phone, also helping with patients treatments in the plaster room     To work in the clinic as required by the Clinic Sister.

Please see attached Job Description and Person Specification for a full list of all Roles and Responsibilities