Florida Department of Education
Curriculum Framework 

Program Title: 	Orthopedic Technology
Program Type: 	Career Preparatory
Career Cluster: 	Health Science

Career Certificate Program	
Program Number	H170800	
CIP Number	0351092300	
Grade Level	30, 31	
Program Length	800 hours	
Teacher Certification	Refer to the Program Structure section.	
CTSO	HOSA	
SOC Codes (all applicable) 	For program SOC codes, please see the Program and Course Tables section of the CTE Program Resources page linked below.	
CTE Program Resources 	http://www.fldoe.org/academics/career-adult-edu/career-tech-edu/program-resources.stml	
Basic Skills Level	Computation (Mathematics): 	10	Communications (Reading and Language Arts):	10	

Purpose

This program offers a sequence of courses that provides coherent and rigorous content aligned with challenging academic standards and relevant technical knowledge and skills needed to prepare for further education and careers in the Health Science career cluster; provides technical skill proficiency, and includes competency-based applied learning that contributes to the academic knowledge, higher-order reasoning and problem-solving skills, work attitudes, general employability skills, technical skills, and occupation-specific skills, and knowledge of all aspects of Health Science career cluster. 

Additional Information relevant to this Career and Technical Education (CTE) program is provided at the end of this document.

Program Structure

This program is a planned sequence of instruction consisting of 2 occupational completion points.

This program is comprised of courses which have been assigned course numbers in the SCNS (Statewide Course Numbering System) in accordance with Section 1007.24 (1), F.S.  Career and Technical credit shall be awarded to the student on a transcript in accordance with Section 1001.44(3) (b), F.S.

To teach the courses listed below, instructors must hold at least one of the teacher certifications indicated for that course.

The following table illustrates the postsecondary program structure:

OCP	Course Number	Course Title	Teacher Certification	Length	
A	HSC0003	Basic Healthcare Worker	Ortho Tech 7 G
REG NUR Ortho 7 G	90 hours	

B	PHT0090	Orthopedic Technologist 1		355 hours	
	PHT0091	Orthopedic Technologist 2		355 hours	

Florida’s Career Readiness Skills for CTE Programs

Employability Skills	
01.0	Apply academic skills to workplace scenarios.	
01.01	Use reading skills.	
01.02	Use writing skills.	
01.03	Use mathematical strategies and procedures.	
01.04	Use scientific principles and procedures.	
02.0	Design a solution to an industry problem.	
02.01	Use critical thinking.	
02.02	Use creativity.	
02.03	Make sound decisions.	
02.04	Solve problems.	
02.05	Reason. 	
02.06	Plan and organize.	
03.0	Manage resources within an industry project	
03.01	Manage time.	
03.02	Manage money or resources.	
03.03	Manage materials.	
03.04	Manage personnel.	
04.0	Oversee the subcomponents, operations and output of a technical or organizational system.	
04.01	Manage systems.	
04.02	Monitor systems.	
04.03	Improve systems.	
05.0	Use information for decision making.	
05.01	Locate information.	
05.02	Organize information.	
05.03	Use information.	
05.04	Analyze information.	
05.05	Communicate information.	
06.0	Apply relevant technology to workplace scenarios to aid productivity.	
06.01	Use technology.	
07.0	Interpret and express interpersonal communication.	
07.01	Communicate verbally.	
07.02	Listen actively.	
07.03	Comprehend written material.	
07.04	Convey information in writing.	
07.05	Communicate nonverbally.	
07.06	Interpret nonverbal communication.	
08.0	Interact with others to accomplish workplace goals.	
08.01	Collaborate with others in a team.	
08.02	Respond to customer needs.	
08.03	Exercise leadership.	
08.04	Negotiate to resolve conflict.	
08.05	Respect others.	
09.0	Manage personal behavior to maximize productivity and professional growth.	
09.01	Demonstrate responsibility and self-discipline.	
09.02	Adapt and show flexibility.	
09.03	Work independently.	
09.04	Demonstrate a willingness to learn.	
09.05	Demonstrate integrity.	
09.06	Demonstrate professionalism.	
09.07	Take initiative.	
09.08	Display positive attitude.	
09.09	Take responsibility for professional growth.	
Job Attainment	
10.0	Find, assess and apply to job opportunities.	
10.01	Identify online job posts relevant to his or her career aspirations.	
10.02	Compare and contrast the job posts’ required qualifications, job duties, compensation, benefits and employers. 	
10.03	Define what information, documentation and writing prompts are required for the positions.	
11.0	Communicate personal competence, character and fit for a job opportunity.	
11.01	Develop a resume.	
11.02	Write a cover letter.	
11.03	Curate a professional portfolio that includes work products.	
11.04	Prepare for and experience a mock job interview.	
12.0	Cultivate and leverage relationships to professionally advance.	
12.01	Request a signed reference letter, letter of recommendation and/or an online skill/professionalism endorsement. 	
12.02	Develop a plan to cultivate a professional digital footprint.	
12.03	Develop a networking plan for a specific industry of interest.	

Standards

After successfully completing this program, the student will be able to perform the following:

01.0	Demonstrate knowledge of the health care delivery system and health occupations.
02.0	Demonstrate the ability to communicate and use interpersonal skills effectively.
03.0	Demonstrate legal and ethical responsibilities.
04.0	Demonstrate an understanding of and apply wellness and disease concepts.
05.0	Recognize and practice safety and security procedures.
06.0	Recognize and respond to emergency situations.
07.0	Recognize and practice infection control procedures.
08.0	Demonstrate an understanding of information technology applications in healthcare.
09.0	Demonstrate employability skills.
10.0	Demonstrate knowledge of blood borne diseases, including HIV/AIDS.
11.0	Apply basic math and science skills. 
12.0	Describe anatomical structure and function of the human body related to the practice of orthopedics.
13.0	Discuss diseases and injuries of the musculoskeletal system and related structures.  
14.0	Demonstrate physical assessment of the orthopedic patient.
15.0	Perform routine maintenance of equipment.
16.0	Disinfect and sterilize materials and equipment.
17.0	Demonstrate knowledge of the use of radiology in orthopedic technology.
18.0	Demonstrate ability to apply, adjust, and remove all common orthopedic devices.
19.0	Assist the orthopedic physician with various treatments and procedures.
20.0	Assist the orthopedic surgeon in the operating room using aseptic technique.
21.0	Demonstrate use of exercise, assistive/supportive devices and specialized equipment.
22.0	Instruct other healthcare providers, patients and families to perform selected treatment procedures and functional activities.
23.0	Identify architectural barriers.
24.0	

Florida Department of Education
Student Performance Standards

Program Title: 	Orthopedic Technology
Career Certificate Program Number:	 H170800

The Basic Health Care Worker (HSC0003) is referred to as the Health Science Core and is the first OCP in the majority of the Career Certificate Program health science programs. Secondary and Postsecondary students completing the health science core will not have to repeat the core in any other health science program in which it is a part.  When the recommended sequence is followed, the structure allows students to complete at specified points for employment or remain for advanced training or cross-training.

Course Number:  HSC0003
Occupational Completion Point:  A 
Basic Healthcare Worker – 90 Hours	

To ensure consistency whenever these courses are offered, the health science core standards (1-11) and benchmarks have been placed in a separate document. To access this document, visit this link: 
https://www.fldoe.org/file/20894/health-sci-core-psav-cc-2627.rtf

Course Number:  PHT0090
Occupational Completion Point:  B 
Orthopedic Technologist 1 – 355 Hours	
12.0	Describe anatomical structure and function of the human body related to the practice of orthopedics.  The student will be able to:	
12.01	Describe the composition, properties and functions of connective tissue.	
12.02	Discuss the generalized functions of the skeletal system.	
12.03	Identify the major anatomical structures found in a typical long bone.	
12.04	Discuss the microscopic structure of bones and cartilage.	
12.05	Explain how bones are formed, grow and remodeled.	
12.06	Identify the two major subdivisions of the skeleton and list the bones found in each area.	
12.07	List and compare the major types of joints in the body.	
12.08	Identify and discuss the structure and function of the three major types of muscle tissue.	
12.09	Discuss the microscopic structure of a skeletal muscle.	
12.10	Explain muscle stimulation, movement and contraction.	
12.11	Identify the major muscles of the body and their primary function.	
12.12	Discuss the most common types of movement produced by skeletal muscles. 	
12.13	Describe the role of tendons and ligaments in the musculoskeletal system.	
13.0	Discuss diseases and injuries of the musculoskeletal system.  The student will be able to:	
13.01	Explain the body’s general response to injury.	
13.02	Discuss the process of tissue healing.	
13.03	Describe the pathophysiology of connective tissue diseases and degenerative joint disorders.	
13.04	Discuss the assessment and treatment of patients with connective tissue diseases and joint disorders.	
13.05	Identify the various types of joint replacement.	
13.06	Discuss the role of the orthopedic technician in pre and post-operative care and therapy of joint replacement patients.  	
13.07	Discuss the common types of strains and sprains and treatment procedures.	
13.08	Classify the different types of bone fractures.	
13.09	Describe the physiological stages that occur in bone healing.	
13.10	Discuss the major complications of fractures, their signs and symptoms and management.	
13.11	Compare the types of medical treatment for fractures including reduction and fixation. 	
13.12	Describe common therapeutic measures for fractures including casts, splints, immobilizers, traction, crutches, walkers, and canes. 	
13.13	Describe specific types of fractures regarding their location in the body. 	
14.0	Demonstrate physical assessment of the orthopedic patient.  The student will be able to:	
14.01	Interview patient and family in order to obtain a complete history of the patient’s complaints/conditions by using effective interviewing techniques.	
14.02	Conduct physical examination of the patient in order to provide pertinent information to the physician by using standard examination techniques.	
14.03	Identify critical elements to include with documentation of physical assessment of the patient. 	
14.04	Use correct medical terminology and proper techniques to document orthopedic conditions or complications on the patient’s chart. 	
15.0	Perform routine maintenance of equipment.  The student will be able to:	
15.01	Assemble, inspect, adjust and disassemble orthopedic equipment such as, frames, weights, cables, pulleys, and other support devices as needed.	
15.02	Clean, organize, and maintain adequate levels of orthopedic equipment for use.	
15.03	Complete repair order forms for broken equipment.	
16.0	Disinfect and sterilize materials and equipment.  The student will be able to:	
16.01	Discuss the principles of infection control, aseptic technique, and sterilization.	
16.02	Disinfect used equipment and materials using proper antiseptics and disinfectants.	
16.03	Prepare materials and equipment for sterilization.	
17.0	Demonstrate knowledge of the use of radiology in orthopedic technology.  The student will be able to:	
17.01	Discuss the history of radiology and its application in orthopedics.	
17.02	Explain the basics of radiographic image production and the various types of permanent imaging relating to orthopedics.	
17.03	Demonstrate the ability to interpret simple fractures and dislocations on radiographic film.	
17.04	Discuss the role of the orthopedic technologist in obtaining and examining radiographs.	
	
Course Number:  PHT0091
Occupational Completion Point:  B 
Orthopedic Technologist 2 – 355 Hours	
18.0	Demonstrate ability to apply, adjust, and remove all common orthopedic devices in order to comply with physician’s orders.  The student will be able to:	
18.01	Discuss the different types of materials and their properties used in constructing casts, splints and immobilizers.	
18.02	Identify the various types of upper and lower extremity casts/splints applicable to specific orthopedic conditions requiring treatment. 	
18.03	Apply upper extremity cast/splint to patient using accepted casting/splinting practices and techniques.	
18.04	Apply lower extremity cast/splint to patient using accepted casting/splinting practices.	
18.05	Discuss the specific orthopedic conditions associated with torso casts/splints and specialty casts/splints.  	
18.06	Apply specialty cast/splint to patient using accepted casting/splinting practices and techniques.	
18.07	Describe the complications associated with casting/splinting.	
18.08	Utilize cast/splint removal equipment to remove casts/splints using accepted practices and techniques. 	
18.09	Utilize cast/splint removal equipment to perform specific procedures, using wedging, windowing, and uni/bivalving techniques.  	
18.10	Apply orthopedic devices to patient by ensuring proper fit and placement. 	
18.11	Apply pre-fabricated orthotics and orthopedic appliances to patient by ensuring proper fit.	
19.0	Assist the orthopedic physician with various treatments and procedures.  The student will be able to:	
19.01	Obtain equipment in order to apply traction therapy to patient by selecting appropriate items for the traction apparatus.	
19.02	Demonstrate ability to construct the specific type of traction ordered.	
19.03	Apply traction apparatus to bed in order to prepare for application of skin or skeletal traction by using accepted practices and techniques.	
19.04	Drape, scrub, and assist in the application of skeletal traction therapy using accepted aseptic practices and techniques.	
19.05	Apply skin traction therapy to patient using accepted aseptic practices and techniques.  	
19.06	Discuss the various types of traction applicable to specific orthopedic conditions requiring traction.	
19.07	Explain the basic biomechanics of traction therapy.	
19.08	Describe the contraindications associated with traction therapy. 	
19.09	Assist in discontinuing traction therapy using accepted practices and techniques.  	
20.0	Assist the orthopedic surgeon using aseptic technique.  The student will be able to:	
20.01	Assist the surgeon during reductions by supplying and applying the appropriate materials. 	
20.02	Apply and manage post-operative dressing on wounds following aseptic practices and techniques. 	
21.0	Demonstrate use of exercise, assistive/supportive devices and specialized equipment.  The student will be able to: 	
21.01	Describe the benefits of exercise, stretching, conditioning and strength training in rehabilitative therapy.	
21.02	Recognize and assist in exercising techniques used in orthopedic therapy.	
21.03	Discuss, demonstrate and teach the proper use of canes, crutches and walkers. 	
21.04	Describe and demonstrate the various types of wheelchairs and their use.	
21.05	Perform safe body mechanics and patient transfer techniques. 	
21.06	Define orthotics and state the importance of proper fit.	
21.07	Discuss upper and lower extremity prosthetics in terms of types of amputations and prosthetics available.	
21.08	Identify and find solutions for common problems associated with prosthetic management.  	
21.09	Assist and instruct patients in the use of orthotic/prosthetic devices.	
22.0	Instruct other healthcare providers, patients and families to perform selected treatment procedures and functional activities.  The student will be able to:	
22.01	Explain specific treatment plans for patients to all parties involved.	
22.02	Describe desired outcomes of selected treatment procedures or functional activities. 	
22.03	Detail the types and functions of equipment being used in treatment of patients and their application.	
22.04	Discuss safety issues and proper procedural methods concerning use of orthopedic equipment and treatment protocol.	
23.0	Identify architectural barriers.  The student will be able to:	
23.01	Identify environmental factors that are potential architectural barriers.	
23.02	Determine which aspects of the patient’s functional level and their ambulatory/mobility equipment are subject to architectural problems.	
23.03	Describe action required to remediate barriers.	

Additional Information

Laboratory Activities

Laboratory investigations that include scientific inquiry, research, measurement, problem solving, emerging technologies, tools and equipment, as well as, experimental, quality, and safety procedures are an integral part of this career and technical program/course. Laboratory investigations benefit all students by developing an understanding of the complexity and ambiguity of empirical work, as well as the skills required to manage, operate, calibrate and troubleshoot equipment/tools used to make observations. Students understand measurement error; and have the skills to aggregate, interpret, and present the resulting data. Equipment and supplies should be provided to enhance hands-on experiences for students.

Special Notes

The Core should be taken first in the program. Following the successful completion of the core, the student is eligible to take the National Health Care Foundation Skill Standards Assessment with instructor approval and the completion of a portfolio.

The graduate of this program is prepared to make application for certification by examination to the: 
National Board for Certification of Orthopaedic Technologists (NBCOT), Inc.
4736 Onondaga Blvd., #166, Syracuse, NY 13219, (866) 466-2268 
TO EARN CERTIFICATION AS A ORTHOPEDIC TECHNOLOGIST CERTIFIED (OTC)

OR
The American Society of Orthopedic Professionals (ASOP)
700 Beach Drive NE, Suite 103, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, (727) 394-1700
TO EARN CERTIFICATION AS A REGISTERED ORTHOPEDIC TECHNOLOGIST (ROT)

Career and Technical Student Organization (CTSO)

CTSOs are co-curricular career and technical student organizations providing leadership training and reinforcing specific career and technical skills. Career and Technical Student Organizations provide activities for students as an integral part of the instruction offered. Other CTSOs not listed in this curriculum framework or recognized by the Florida Department of Education are permissible provided they support student mastery over the standards and benchmarks of this curriculum framework.

Cooperative Training – OJT

On-the-job training is appropriate but not required for this program.  Whenever offered, the rules, guidelines, and requirements specified in the OJT framework apply. 

Basic Skills 

In Career Certificate Programs offered for 450 hours or more, in accordance with Rule 6A-10.040, F.A.C., the minimum basic skills grade levels required for postsecondary adult career and technical students to complete this program are:  Computation (Mathematics) and Communications (Reading and Language Arts). These grade level numbers correspond to a grade equivalent score obtained on a state designated basic skills examination.  

Adult students with disabilities, as defined in Section 1004.02, Florida Statutes, may be exempted from meeting the Basic Skills requirements (Rule 6A-10.040).  Students served in exceptional student education (except gifted) as defined in s. 1003.01, F.S., may also be exempted from meeting the Basic Skills requirement.  Each school district and Florida College System Institution must adopt a policy addressing procedures for exempting eligible students with disabilities from the Basic Skills requirement as permitted in Section 1004.91, F.S.

Accommodations

Federal and state legislation requires the provision of accommodations for students with disabilities to meet individual needs and ensure equal access. Postsecondary students with disabilities must self-identify, present documentation, request accommodations if needed, and develop a plan with their counselor and/or instructors. Accommodations received in postsecondary education may differ from those received in secondary education. Accommodations change the way the student is instructed. Students with disabilities may need accommodations in such areas as instructional methods and materials, assignments and assessments, time demands and schedules, learning environment, assistive technology and special communication systems. Documentation of the accommodations requested and provided should be maintained in a confidential file.

Note: postsecondary curriculum and regulated secondary programs cannot be modified.