RN, Healthcare Nursing, RN Nurse

Orthopedic Nurse Job Description

Orthopedic nurses are registered nurses (RNs) who focus on the care and treatment of patients with muscular and skeletal system disorders. They assist patients who have experienced fractures, have undergone orthopedic surgery, or are managing long-term musculoskeletal conditions.

• Patient assessment. Orthopedic nurses evaluate their patients’ musculoskeletal issues, mobility abilities, and pain levels to create informed treatment plans.
• Postoperative care. After surgeries, such as for fracture repairs or joint replacements, orthopedic nurses provide continued postoperative care. This can include monitoring patients for signs of infection and providing wound care.
• Rehabilitation support. Orthopedic nurses may work closely with physical therapists to help patients recover from injuries. This might include teaching patients mobility exercises or providing recovery support.
• Pain management. Critically, orthopedic nurses help manage patients’ pain by administering medication and offering non-pharmacological pain relief therapeutics such as heat and cold therapy.

An orthopedic nurse’s job description may include more than these four responsibilities. The role can vary, with two nurses who specialize in orthopedic nursing completing very different daily tasks.

Tasks include reviewing charts, attaching results and preparing for office hours ahead of time. Orthopedic Nursing experience a major plus.