JOB SUMMARY
Trauma and orthopedic surgeons specialize in the treatment of patients who have sustained traumatic injuries such as accidents, falls, or sports-related incidents. This position plays a crucial role in the acute care and long-term recovery of patients with traumatic injuries. Their work requires a combination of surgical skill, medical knowledge, and a compassionate approach to patient care. Trauma and Orthopedic surgeons will typically work in emergency units, operating theaters, inpatient wards, intensive care units, and rehabilitation units.
Typical duties include examining, diagnosing, performing surgical and non-surgical procedures on, ordering diagnostic tests, and prescribing pre- and post-operative medications.
Trauma and Orthopedic Surgeons at times may be called to work day- or night shifts, may have unpredictable hours, and may be required to conduct surgeries under severe time constraints.
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function with or without reasonable accommodation.
MAIN TASKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
As this is a common application for both trauma and orthopedic surgeons, all tasks and responsibilities are to be completed within the individual scope of practice of the individual applicant.
Diagnosis and Assessment
- Conduct thorough and timely medical histories and physical examinations to diagnose traumatic injuries.
- Order diagnostic tests and use medical imaging, such as Ultrasound, X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs, to assess the extent of the injuries and the patient’s clinical condition.
Treatment Planning
- Develop comprehensive treatment plans based on the diagnosis and patient condition.
- Consider both surgical and non-surgical interventions depending on the severity and nature of the trauma.
Surgical and Non-Surgical Procedures
- Perform non-surgical and emergency procedures as appropriate, including reductions, re-alignments, hemostatic procedures, and other procedures to improve morbidity and mortality of the patient within the scope of practice.
- Perform surgical procedures to repair or mitigate morbidity from traumatic injuries within your scope of practice.
- Utilize a variety of medical instruments, tools, and equipment to aid in the performance of surgical procedures as needed.
- Utilize implanted and external surgical equipment and supplies as required in the surgical care of trauma patients.
- Perform operations on critical, often multiple, injuries to different organ systems within your scope of practice.
Emergency Care
- Provide immediate resuscitation, stabilization, and other emergency care to trauma patients in emergency settings, including the use of medications to prevent further morbidity.
- Stabilize injuries to prevent further damage and complications.
Collaboration/Quality Assurance
- Work closely with other medical professionals, such as emergency physicians, anesthesiologists, and physical therapists, to ensure comprehensive patient care.
- Consult with specialists in related fields as needed.
- Contribute to the improvement of the facility medical and surgical protocols within the facility by recognizing areas of improvement and contributing to the implementation of solutions.
- Contribute to an environment of quality medical and surgical care that fosters accountability to patients and families.
- Perform tasks not typically associated with a traditional surgical practice outside of an emergency response, including the setup of tents and medical equipment, maintaining IPC, restocking medical supplies and equipment, and other non-medical tasks assigned by the Medical Coordinator.
Postoperative Care
- Oversee the postoperative care of patients, including critical care, wound management, pain control, and rehabilitation.
- Monitor and manage potential complications that may arise after surgery.
- Coordinate any follow-up care that is needed after the patient leaves the care of the facility.
Patient Education
- Educate patients and their families about the nature of their injuries, treatment options, and expected outcomes.
- Provide guidance on postoperative care and rehabilitation exercises.
Documentation
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date medical records for all patients.
- Document procedures, treatment plans, and postoperative care thoroughly.
Team Leadership
- Provide leadership within the orthopedic surgery team, especially in trauma cases.
- Collaborate with nurses, residents, and other healthcare professionals to ensure effective and efficient patient care.
Adherence to Ethical and Legal Standards:
- Adhere to ethical and legal standards in medical practice.
- Ensure patient confidentiality and informed consent.
Perform other duties as assigned. The duties and responsibilities listed in this document are representative of the nature and level of work assigned and not necessarily all inclusive.
