Orthotists and Prosthetists

• Fit, test, and evaluate devices on patients, and make adjustments for proper fit, function, and comfort.
• Instruct patients in the use and care of orthoses and prostheses.
• Maintain patients' records.
• Select materials and components to be used, based on device design.
• Design orthopedic and prosthetic devices, based on physicians' prescriptions and examination and measurement of patients.
• Make and modify plaster casts of areas that will be fitted with prostheses or orthoses, for use in the device construction process.
• Confer with physicians to formulate specifications and prescriptions for orthopedic or prosthetic devices.
• Construct and fabricate appliances or supervise others constructing the appliances.
• Train and supervise support staff, such as orthopedic and prosthetic assistants and technicians.
• Update skills and knowledge by attending conferences and seminars.
• Repair, rebuild, and modify prosthetic and orthopedic appliances.
• Show and explain orthopedic and prosthetic appliances to healthcare workers.
• Research new ways to construct and use orthopedic and prosthetic devices.
• Publish research findings or present them at conferences and seminars.

Source: O*NET OnLine information for Orthotists and Prosthetists.

• Reading Comprehension - Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
• Active Listening - Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
• Service Orientation - Actively looking for ways to help people.
• Critical Thinking - Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
• Social Perceptiveness - Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.
• Writing - Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
• Complex Problem Solving - Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
• Active Learning - Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
• Judgment and Decision Making - Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.

Source: O*NET OnLine information for Orthotists and Prosthetists.