Unit of competency Outline

Date retreived
22/07/2026 2:10 PM AWST

Whilst all efforts are made to provide accurate and timely information from the relevant source/documentation, please be aware that the information supplied may not be the most current version. The accuracy of the detail has not been confirmed by the Department and therefore should not be relied upon without first confirming the contents.

Modify casts

Modify casts

Unit of competency
National Code
HLTOTH002
State Code
ODQ74
TGA Status
Current
DTWD Status
Pending
Current Release Number
1.00
Current Release Date
07/12/2021
View on TGA
State Implementation and Classification
Approved Date
Field of Education
061799 - Rehabilitation Therapies, N.e.c.
Original Release Date
Nominal Hours
Description
This unit of competency describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to modify casts.The unit applies to orthopaedic technologists who work in healthcare settings, including operating theatres, emergency department, wards and out of care client departments.Work is performed at the request of, and in consultation with, medical staff. Simple modifications, which do not alter the intent of the cast or splint, may be performed at the technician's discretion. Some discretion and judgement are required, and individuals take responsibility for the quality of their outputs.All activities are carried out in accordance with organisational policies, procedures and infection control guidelines.The skills in this unit must be applied in accordance with Commonwealth and State or Territory legislation, Australian standards and industry codes of practice.No occupational licensing, certification or specific legislative requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
Notes
Elements and Performance Criteria
1. Prepare to modify cast.
  • 1.1. Receive and interpret cast modification instructions in referral documentation and seek clarification if required.
  • 1.2. Identify safety hazards and risks, assess risks and implement risk control strategies to minimise risks to client and self.
  • 1.3. Perform hand hygiene and use personal protective equipment (PPE) according to work health and safety and infection control procedures.
  • 1.4. Source information through delegated subjective and clinical assessments to determine client condition, individual needs, to identify precautions and potential complications.
  • 1.5. Provide relevant and timely feedback including liaising with medical practitioner for conditions requiring immediate review.
  • 1.6. Liaise with healthcare team to discuss subjective and objective findings and confirm instructions.
  • 1.7. Explain cast modification procedure to client, provide opportunities to ask questions and discuss areas of concern.
  • 1.8. Obtain client consent to proceed with cast modification.
2. Apply cast modification techniques.
  • 2.1. Assemble equipment and materials and inspect to confirm it is clean and in working order in accordance with manufacturer specifications.
  • 2.2. Communicate with clients in a caring and respectful manner.
  • 2.3. Monitor client to identify and manage client anxiety.
  • 2.4. Position client for correct anatomical positioning of limb and confirm client comfort and safety.
  • 2.5. Refresh and maintain clean skin.
  • 2.6. Select and use equipment, materials and cast modification techniques to maintain and correct soft tissue and fracture position according to instructions.
  • 2.7. Check and confirm cast modification to meet instructions and individual client needs.
3. Undertake post modification procedures.
  • 3.1. Check neurovascular status of limb to confirm within normal limits.
  • 3.2. Fit prescribed aid as required for client condition and instruct in use, including adhering to relevant weight bearing restrictions.
  • 3.3. Review client for safe and correct use of the aid.
  • 3.4. Provide written and verbal advice for care of cast and limb according to referral from the healthcare team and discuss client concerns.
  • 3.5. Identify and report client self-management concerns to healthcare team and arrange support within limitations of job role.
  • 3.6. Complete clinical records according to documentation procedures.
4. Clean working environment.
  • 4.1. Remove PPE and perform hand hygiene according to work health and safety and infection control procedures.
  • 4.2. Dispose of waste according to waste management procedures.
  • 4.3. Clean, sanitise and store equipment according to manufacturer specifications.
  • 4.4. Clean work surfaces according to infection control procedures.
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State Code National Code Title Type
BHJ5 HLT57821 Diploma of Orthopaedic Technology Qualification