Medical Appliance Technicians

• Read prescriptions or specifications to determine the type of product or device to be fabricated and the materials and tools that will be required.
• Make orthotic or prosthetic devices, using materials such as thermoplastic and thermosetting materials, metal alloys and leather, and hand or power tools.
• Bend, form, and shape fabric or material to conform to prescribed contours of structural components.
• Construct or receive casts or impressions of patients' torsos or limbs for use as cutting and fabrication patterns.
• Repair, modify, or maintain medical supportive devices, such as artificial limbs, braces, or surgical supports, according to specifications.
• Cover or pad metal or plastic structures or devices, using coverings such as rubber, leather, felt, plastic, or fiberglass.
• Test medical supportive devices for proper alignment, movement, or biomechanical stability, using meters and alignment fixtures.
• Lay out and mark dimensions of parts, using templates and precision measuring instruments.
• Fit appliances onto patients and make any necessary adjustments.
• Polish artificial limbs, braces, or supports, using grinding and buffing wheels.
• Take patients' body or limb measurements for use in device construction.
• Instruct patients in use of prosthetic or orthotic devices.
• Service or repair machinery used in the fabrication of appliances.

Source: O*NET OnLine information for Medical Appliance Technicians.

• Critical Thinking - Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
• Quality Control Analysis - Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.
• Troubleshooting - Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.
• Reading Comprehension - Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
• Speaking - Talking to others to convey information effectively.
• Operation Monitoring - Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
• Social Perceptiveness - Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.
• Complex Problem Solving - Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
• Monitoring - Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.

Source: O*NET OnLine information for Medical Appliance Technicians.