5 steps to becoming an orthopedic technician in Ontario

If you're excited about the idea of ​​working in a hospital or clinic, alongside medical professionals, helping patients recover from injuries, then an orthopedic technician training program might be the perfect career for you. Once you've sparked your interest, the next step is understanding exactly your role and responsibilities and how to navigate this career path, from research and study to entrepreneurship.

If you are a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, find out about funding options HERE.

5 steps to becoming an orthopedic technician in Ontario

1. Understand what you want.

The first step is to determine what an orthopedic technician does and whether it's a good fit for you. As an orthopedic technician, you'll work directly with orthopedic surgeons. You'll perform tasks such as applying bandages, adjusting or removing casts, splints, and traction devices used in orthopedic patient care. Additionally, you'll observe, monitor, report, and document changes in patients' physical, mental, and emotional state, while providing safe, effective, and quality care and support. For this position, strong organizational and time management skills are essential, as well as the ability to work as a cohesive and independent team member in a fast-paced environment. Undoubtedly, for this to be a good fit for you, you must possess excellent communication skills and, above all, a passion for patient care.

2. Find a suitable training location.

Your ability to launch a successful career in this field, hinges on where you decide to study an orthopaedic technician program. You want to ensure that you are learning from industry experts, those who have the in-depth knowledge to guide you with. You want to find a program that meets your career goals and provides you with a balance between theoretical and practical training, between classroom learning and practicing your skills in a simulated learning lab.

Your chances of starting a successful career in this field depend on where you decide to pursue an orthopedic technician program. You want to ensure you learn from industry experts with in-depth knowledge. You want to find a program that meets your career goals and provides you with a balance between theoretical and practical training, between classroom learning and hands-on experience in simulated learning labs.

Specifically, Anderson College's Orthopedic Technician program lasts 47 weeks and includes subjects such as: fundamental principles of orthopedic care, fractures, treatment and rehabilitation, splinting, casting, wound care, medical terminology, the use of orthopedic equipment and instruments, interpersonal communication skills, and patient care. The program provides a balance between theoretical instruction and hands-on training in a modern laboratory. In clinical labs, you will learn how to apply casts and splints, and gain an understanding of how to operate and adjust traction devices, crutches, walkers, and other assistive devices.

If you are a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, find out about funding options HERE.

3. Receive practical training with potential employers.

It's essential that you choose a college with quality connections and relationships with potential employers in the community. You don't just want a program that provides a theoretical learning and simulation environment, but also a practical program that allows you to apply what you've learned and connect with healthcare organizations that may be ready to offer you a position upon graduation. With Anderson's solid history and reputation for ensuring graduates are well-skilled and its 11-week practical training in this program, you'll be career-ready and connected to potential job opportunities.

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4. Research your career opportunities.

Explore available job opportunities through job banks . Search for job postings and sign up for notifications about upcoming positions on various job search tools, such as Job Bank and Indeed. If you want to experience a 'day in the life' of an orthopedic technician, you can contact several orthopedic surgeon offices and request an informational interview with an orthopedic technician, or connect with school counselors to see if an interview with a graduate can be arranged.

5. Create and present the "Wow" element in your job application.

Now you know where your passion lies. You know what the job market is like, and you're ready to prepare to search for jobs and showcase yourself in a way that makes you stand out and land your dream job. The final step is to find resources on resume writing, or schedule an appointment with your school's career counselor for support.

How does KeyApply help you?

If you're ready to start your new career as an orthopedic technician in just 47 weeks, we're here to guide you through the steps and help you get started! Contact KeyApply to schedule an appointment with one of our Admissions Advisors today! Consultations are completely free.

If you are a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, find out about funding options HERE.