Top 10 Questions for Orthopedic Technician Interview

1. Describe the steps you would take when cleaning and inspecting an X-ray machine?

• Turn off the X-ray machine and unplug it from the power source.
• Remove the collimator and inspect it for any damage or debris.
• Clean the exterior of the machine with a mild detergent and a damp cloth.
• Inspect the tube head and anode for any signs of damage or wear.
• Check the oil level in the anode and add oil if necessary.
• Reattach the collimator and plug the machine back into the power source.
• Turn on the machine and test it to ensure that it is functioning properly.

2. What are the different types of X-ray projections?

Axial projection

• This projection is taken with the X-ray beam perpendicular to the body part being imaged.
• It is used to visualize structures that are located in the same plane.

Coronal projection

• This projection is taken with the X-ray beam parallel to the sagittal plane of the body.
• It is used to visualize structures that are located in the frontal plane.

Sagittal projection

• This projection is taken with the X-ray beam parallel to the coronal plane of the body.
• It is used to visualize structures that are located in the sagittal plane.

Oblique projection

• This projection is taken with the X-ray beam at an angle to the body part being imaged.
• It is used to visualize structures that are located at an angle to the axial, coronal, or sagittal planes.

3. Describe the role of an orthopedic technician in a total knee replacement surgery.

• Assist the surgeon in positioning the patient on the operating table.
• Prepare the surgical site by shaving and disinfecting the skin.
• Drape the patient and the surgical site with sterile drapes.
• Pass instruments and supplies to the surgeon during the surgery.
• Assist the surgeon in implanting the artificial knee joint.
• Close the incision and apply a dressing to the surgical site.
• Monitor the patient’s vital signs during the surgery and recovery.

4. What are the most common complications of a total knee replacement surgery?

• Infection
• Blood clots
• Implant loosening
• Stiffness
• Pain

5. What are the signs and symptoms of a surgical site infection?

• Redness
• Swelling
• Pain
• Drainage from the incision
• Fever
• Chills

6. What are the steps you would take if you suspect that a patient has a surgical site infection?

• Notify the surgeon immediately.
• Obtain a culture of the drainage from the incision.
• Start the patient on antibiotics.
• Monitor the patient’s vital signs and condition closely.

7. What are the different types of casts and splints that are used in orthopedic surgery?

• Casts
• Rigid dressings that are used to immobilize a bone or joint.
• Made of plaster, fiberglass, or other materials.
• Splints
• Semi-rigid dressings that are used to support and protect a bone or joint.
• Made of metal, plastic, or other materials.

8. What are the indications for casting a fracture?

• To immobilize the fracture and prevent further damage.
• To reduce pain and swelling.
• To promote healing.

9. What are the different types of fractures?

• Closed fractures
• The skin is not broken.
• The bone is fractured but does not protrude through the skin.
• Open fractures
• The skin is broken and the bone is protruding through the skin.
• Open fractures are more serious than closed fractures because they are more likely to become infected.

10. What are the signs and symptoms of a fracture?

• Pain
• Swelling
• Bruising
• Deformity
• Loss of function

Orthopedic technicians are responsible for providing technical support to orthopedic surgeons during surgical procedures. They perform a variety of tasks, including preparing and sterilizing surgical instruments, assisting the surgeon with positioning the patient, and monitoring the patient’s vital signs. Orthopedic technicians also play an important role in patient care, assisting with pre- and post-operative care, and providing comfort and support to patients and their families.

1. Prepare and sterilize surgical instruments

Orthopedic technicians are responsible for preparing and sterilizing surgical instruments before, during, and after surgery. This includes cleaning, inspecting, and sharpening instruments, as well as packaging and sterilizing them according to established protocols. Orthopedic technicians must also be able to troubleshoot and repair surgical equipment.

2. Assist the surgeon with positioning the patient

Orthopedic technicians assist the surgeon with positioning the patient for surgery. This involves positioning the patient in a way that allows the surgeon to have optimal access to the surgical site. Orthopedic technicians must also be able to maintain the patient’s position throughout the surgery.

3. Monitor the patient’s vital signs

Orthopedic technicians are responsible for monitoring the patient’s vital signs during surgery. This includes monitoring the patient’s heart rate, blood pressure, and respirations. Orthopedic technicians must also be able to recognize and respond to any changes in the patient’s vital signs.

4. Provide patient care

Orthopedic technicians play an important role in patient care. They assist with pre- and post-operative care, and provide comfort and support to patients and their families. Orthopedic technicians may also provide instruction on how to care for the surgical site and how to use assistive devices.

Preparing for an interview for an Orthopedic Technician position can be daunting, but with the right preparation, you can increase your chances of success. Here are a few tips to help you ace your interview:

1. Research the organization and the position

Take some time to research the organization you are applying to, as well as the specific position you are interested in. This will help you to understand the organization’s culture and values, as well as the specific requirements of the job. You can find information about the organization on their website, in their annual reports, and in news articles.

2. Practice your answers to common interview questions

There are a number of common interview questions that you are likely to be asked, such as “Tell me about yourself” and “Why are you interested in this position?”. It is helpful to practice your answers to these questions in advance so that you can deliver them confidently and concisely.

3. Prepare questions to ask the interviewer

Asking thoughtful questions at the end of the interview shows that you are engaged and interested in the position. It also gives you an opportunity to learn more about the organization and the position. Some good questions to ask include “What are the biggest challenges facing the organization right now?” and “What is the most important quality you are looking for in a candidate for this position?”.

4. Dress professionally and arrive on time

First impressions matter, so it is important to dress professionally for your interview. You should also arrive on time, or even a few minutes early. This shows that you are respectful of the interviewer’s time and that you are prepared.