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• Emergency Situations: Rapidly communicating suspected fractures, dislocations,
compartment syndrome, or vascular injuries to prevent complications.
• Pre-Surgical Reporting: Relaying findings to the surgical team to aid in preoperative
planning.
• Post-Care Instructions: Ensuring that nurses and rehabilitation teams understand
necessary post-procedure care, including weight-bearing restrictions and brace usage.
• Interpreting and Conveying Imaging Results: Assisting in the review of radiographic
findings and correlating them with clinical assessments.

By mastering effective communication skills, orthopaedic technologists enhance patient safety,
improve workflow efficiency, and contribute to high-quality musculoskeletal care. Best practices
for communication include:

• Using SBAR (Situation, Background, Assessment, Recommendation) for structured
reporting
• Providing clear and concise documentation of patient assessments
• Collaborating with physicians, nurses, and radiology teams to expedite patient care
• Ensuring all findings are accurately conveyed, including test results and
observations

Timely and accurate communication minimizes errors and enhances patient outcomes by
ensuring that appropriate treatments are initiated without delay.

Legal and Ethical Considerations in Patient Evaluation

Orthopaedic technologists must adhere to legal and ethical standards while conducting patient
assessments. These standards ensure patient safety, protect healthcare providers, and maintain
the integrity of the healthcare profession. Understanding the legal and ethical principles that
guide patient evaluation is critical in fostering trust and professionalism in clinical practice.

Key Legal Considerations

1. Informed Consent
o Patients must be provided with clear and comprehensive information about their
diagnosis, treatment options, and potential risks.
o Written consent is required for invasive procedures or treatments.
o Ensure patients have the mental capacity to make informed healthcare decisions.
2. HIPAA Compliance (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act)
o Protecting patient confidentiality is a legal requirement.
o Patient health records must be securely stored and only shared with authorized
personnel.
o Violations of HIPAA regulations can result in legal penalties and loss of
professional licensure.