Level 6 – Prosthetist and Orthotist (integrated degree)
Key responsibilities of a Prosthetist and orthotist Apprentice
A Prosthetist and orthotist is a registered clinician. This unique occupation provides the opportunity to practice in two areas of healthcare. Most will specialise in Prosthetics or Orthotics; a small number continue in both. As a Prosthetists you will provide gait analysis and engineering solutions to patients with limb(s) loss. They are trained in mechanics and bio-mechanics. As well as material science with anatomy, physiology and pathophysiology. Prosthetists and orthotists will be able to design, provide and modify prostheses that replicate the structural or functional characteristics of a patient’s absent limb(s).
Jobs and entry criteria for the level 4 data analyst apprenticeship
This will include GCSEs, A levels, other relevant qualifications, relevant experience and/or an aptitude test.
Apprentices will be required to complete a Health and care professions council (HCPC) approved BSc (Hons) programme in prosthetics and orthotics. Apprentices without level 2 English and maths will need to achieve this level prior to completing the end-point assessment. For those with an education, health and care plan or a legacy statement the apprenticeships English and maths minimum requirement is Entry Level 3.
Day to Day Responsibilities
- Firstly you will provide Prosthetist and orthotist care to patients. Most commonly you will be in a hospital environment. You will also work closely with medical staff, physio and occupational therapists
- Secondly, you will analyse patient’s needs and involve them in the design and choice of their devise. For instance, taking measurements and/or using computer modelling to produce a design of the prostheses or orthoses suited to the patient
- Support patients to maximise their potential over the time of treatment – which could be life long
- Finally you will carry out clinical follow-up checks with a patient to see how they are managing with their device. Moreover you will be able to spot ill-fitting, sub-optimal functioning and take appropriate action.
What You Will Learn
- Firstly you will learn how to work collaboratively with those who provide services to patients, including recognising the limits of prosthetic and orthotic practice. But also when to seek advice and/or refer to another professional.
- Secondly what is meant by fitness to practice; how to work within legislation, standards, protocols and codes of conduct. Notwithstanding the limits of your own competence and role.
- Finally how to be able to apply your professional knowledge, skills and experience as part of a multi-professional team. This will ensure a patient’s needs are met.
Conclusion – Values and Behaviors
Some of the values essential to the role include professionalism. It is also imperative to be skilled, caring, and compassionate. You will have to be conscientious, honest and trustworthy.
This role will teach people to treat others with dignity, respect a patient’s beliefs and culture. As well also understanding their needs, values, privacy and preferences. Respect and empathy shown for other colleagues is essential. Furthermore, having the courage to challenge areas of concern. One will show respect and empathy for those with whom you work with, have the courage to challenge areas of concern and work to evidence based best practice and consensus. You will also be adaptable, reflective, reliable and consistent, show discretion, resilience, self-awareness and demonstrate leadership. You will be focused on problem solving and demonstrate tenacity.
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