All in a Day's Work: Lynn Folkerts, Certified Orthopaedic Technologist

Lynn Folkerts, Certified Orthopaedic Technologist at Regions Hospital in St. Paul, talks about her job.

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Last update: November 4, 2009 - 1:11 PM

Q: What's a typical workday like for you?

My job is never typical. I work with some physicians who only do trauma cases, such as car or motorcycle accidents. I also work with a foot and ankle surgeon on fractures and more complicated injuries, some of which involve surgery, casting and splinting. I may assist an orthopaedic surgeon in the operating room with casting and splinting.

I also do suture and staple removals, post-operative splinting and casting. I see each patient about every three weeks for three to six months, depending on the fracture.

Q: How does your role fit into the bigger healthcare picture?

I assist in the healing of fractures and must be sure I apply the correct cast in the correct position for proper healing. I do a lot to help patients feel more comfortable.

Q: Who do you interact with during the course of the day?

During the course of any given day, I will work with doctors, nurses, patients, families, residents, medical students, X-ray staff, receptionists and fellow orthopaedic technologists.

Q: Why did you become an orthopaedic technologist?

I worked in family practice clinic for 11 years, assisting the physician in primary care medicine. I was always intrigued by X-rays, and found it to be challenging to help diagnose a fracture. I started doing some casting there and found a love for orthopaedics.

Q: What do you like about your work?

When I see how proper care and casting can help a young child with a severe fracture have virtually no visible evidence of that fracture, as an adult it's rewarding and reminds me that what I do makes a difference. I also meet great people and hear very interesting stories about their incidents and lives. In addition, I work with some fantastic people who are very knowledgeable and teach me every day.

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