Athletic Trainer Clinical

Athletic Trainer

This position administers athletic training services in a community or clinic setting under the supervision of a supervising physician. They also have the capability of providing support to Orthopedic Surgeons or Sports Medicine Physicians through duties as an Athletic Trainer in the physician practice. These services include, but are not limited to, school screenings, injury prevention programs, athletic consults, injury assessment, and treatment and case management of injured athletes/clients undergoing rehabilitation. This position frequently attends practices and games for area schools and athletic clubs and community athletic events. This position may also provide proper post-operative wound care and education, removal of sutures and dressing changes to post-surgical patients as directed by attending physician.

Core functions include evaluating musculoskeletal injuries and developing treatment and exercise plans within the scope of practice of athletic training. Assists providers with clinical examinations, including obtaining medical history and vitals, prepare injections, and taking necessary measurements. Instructs patients in pre- and post-operative care, proper care of casts and splints, and crutch training.

Implements individualized therapeutic interventions, and monitors responses to therapy to ensure client safety. Reports progress and medical changes to referring physician or appropriate medical provider. Educates clients, families, and coaches regarding injuries, risk factor modification, and exercise programs. Provides evaluation and treatment of medical and musculoskeletal pathology consistent with the scope and practice of athletic training clinical competencies as defined by the National Athletic Trainers' Association (NATA), the Board of Certification (BOC) for the Athletic Trainers, and the applicable state's Board of Athletic Training.

May perform first and second assist functions during procedures and surgeries under direct supervision of a surgeon if candidate possesses current NBCOT certification or is currently training for the OTC license. Knowledge of all operating room aseptic techniques, including setting up proper draping and surgical fields. Positions and prepares patient for various orthopedic surgical procedures in operating room including fracture table setup, patient positioning, and specialized orthopedic instrumentation.

May apply, adjust and remove casts, splints, immobilization devices and traction under physician direction. Removes sutures, staples, pins and wires. Changes dressings and cares for wounds. Measures and fits patients for braces and other orthopedic devices. Educates patients about various orthopedic conditions.

May assist physician in reduction of fractures and dislocations. Assists with and performs the removal of orthopedic hardware and wound closure. Able to interpret most types of orthopedic fractures and dislocations on x-ray films.

Develops reference and referral resources for patients and families which expedite their access to care. Incorporates best practices and responds to emerging trends to enhance clinical care and programs or services and develops effective tools to measure performance.

Has autonomy to determine how to best accomplish functions within established procedures and scope of practice. Confers with supervisor on any unusual situations. Positions are facility based with no budgetary responsibility. Internal customers: All levels of nursing management and staff, medical staff, and all other members of the interdisciplinary health care team. External Customers: Physician offices, patient families, community/educational institution customers (administration, coaches, athletes, etc.), third party payers, medical supply companies, community and business organizations, and potential patient referral facilities.

Minimum qualifications include a Bachelor's degree in Athletic Training or related field from an accredited university training program, current Board of Certification (BOC) for the Athletic Trainer certification, and a valid athletic trainer license issued in the state of practice, if applicable. Basic Life Support (BLS) certification is required. Requires the ability to work collaboratively with physicians and other healthcare providers. Must have strong interpersonal communications and human relation skills.

Preferred qualifications include a Master's degree in Athletic Training or related field, current certification as an Orthopedic Technologist by the National Board of Certification for Orthopedic Technologists (NBCOT) or Orthopedic Specialty Certified by (BOC), and additional related education and/or experience.