Who Is an Orthopedic Nurse and What Are the Duties of an Orthopedic Nurse?

Musculoskeletal diseases and disorders are prevalent throughout the world, resulting in common conditions such as arthritis, fractures, joint replacements, osteoporosis, etc. To care for patients suffering from these conditions, there is a need for nurses who can help with pain management, casting, traction, operating mobility devices, etc.   

Frequently, musculoskeletal ailments need surgery and orthopaedic nurses help physicians to prepare for the procedure.  They also assist patients with post-operative recovery. After completing their nursing studies in Canada, orthopaedic nurses are formally trained to work in the operating theatre, hospital wards, outpatient clinics, offices, etc.  Orthopaedic nurses are usually familiar with a wide range of medical conditions, surgeries and medications. 

In this blog we will learn about who is an orthopaedic nurse and what are the duties of an orthopaedic nurse. 

What is orthopaedic nursing?  

Orthopaedic nursing speciality primarily focuses on treatment and prevention of musculoskeletal disorders. These range from acute problems such as fractures, to chronic systemic conditions such as low bone density or lupus erythematosus, to joint replacements, etc. An orthopaedic nurse possesses specialised skills like casting, neurovascular status monitoring, traction, continuous passive motion therapy and external fixation, among others.   

Who is an orthopaedic nurse?  

An orthopaedic nurse is a specialised nurse who assists patients with musculoskeletal problems like osteoporosis, broken bones, injuries, joint replacements and illnesses etc. An orthopaedic nurse works closely with patients and their families along with orthopaedic teams to ensure clear patient education, a smooth recovery and minimal complications.  It is the duty of an orthopaedic nurse to carry out musculoskeletal health assessments, help with casting and traction including administering pain medication.  

An orthopaedic nurse invests time to motivate patients to enhance their mobility.  They also instruct them on how to protect their joints and enhance their bone health.  They also implement strategies to minimise their pain and complications.  You will need to be empathetic when working with patients who are dealing with chronic pain and mobility problems as an orthopaedic nurse. You should have excellent communication skills to ensure that the healthcare provider or doctor is fully aware of the patient's needs and to facilitate appropriate follow-up.  

What does an orthopaedic nurse do?  

Orthopaedic nurses have a wide range of responsibilities as they see many patients with a variety of musculoskeletal conditions. These nurses may assess patients in a clinical or hospital setting and order imaging, treatments and procedures. From assisting with orthopaedic surgery and setting broken bones to administering joint injections, casting and splinting, orthopaedic nurses have a lot to do.   These nurses may follow up on key findings from treatment interventions, order follow-up tests, plan follow-up care, and work with members of the healthcare team to ensure that the patient's needs are met.  

In summary, the roles and responsibilities of an orthopaedic nurse include:  

• Assisting doctors in the management of musculoskeletal problems
• Assessing patients' vital signs
• Assisting in the treatment of injuries with major wound dressings and casts
• Placing a patient on a pain management plan and assisting with pain medication, monitoring for reactions and allergies
• Educating and sensitising patients on how to heal safely at home after surgery or injury
• Enabling patients to improve strength and mobility after correction of a musculoskeletal problem.

How to become an orthopaedic nurse?  

To become an orthopaedic nurse, you must complete an accredited nursing programme. There are many hospitals that prefer a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree, but this is not a requirement for all hospitals. Graduating from an advanced nursing program in Canada and then passing the NCLEX-RN exam to become licensed is required. Nurses who wish to continue their education in orthopaedics are encouraged to pursue a master's degree.  To gain experience, nurses who have already worked in intensive care, emergency, surgical and other applicable settings are well prepared to work in the orthopaedic specialty.   

What is the future of orthopaedic nursing in Canada?   

Orthopaedic nursing is constantly evolving, and more and more jobs are being created for nurses in this field. Demand for orthopaedic nurses in Canada is on the rise, and a career in nursing offers many gratifying advantages, including as increased pay, a wide range of career options, and the fulfilment that comes from helping others. The average salary for an orthopaedic nurse ranges from $67,234 to $116,572, with the best earning as much as $134,468 per year.  

Conclusion 

Orthopaedic nursing is unique in that it is a speciality that deals with the intense pain that patients face, but also the dramatic recovery and healing that professionals get to witness. If you are someone who can thrive in these extremes, then orthopaedic nursing is for you. If you are interested in taking the role of an orthopaedic nurse in Canada, feel free to contact our experts at MWT Education Consultancy who will be happy to help you with all your questions and clarifications