KCSE MEAN GRADE: C

EXAMINATION & LICENSING BODY: TVET CDACC

PROFESSIONAL LICENSING BODY: KENYA ORTHOPAEDICS ASSOCIATION

1. Course Overview

The Diploma in Orthopaedics and Trauma Medicine program is designed to train healthcare professionals with the knowledge and practical skills required to assess, diagnose, manage, and rehabilitate patients with musculoskeletal injuries and trauma-related conditions.
It blends theory, clinical exposure, and hands-on surgical assistance, preparing graduates to provide essential orthopaedic and trauma care in hospitals, clinics, and emergency settings.

2. Course Duration

• Duration: 3 years (inclusive of supervised hospital attachments and clinical rotations)
• The program combines theoretical learning, skills laboratory sessions, and practical hospital-based training.

3. Course Objectives

By the end of the training, learners should be able to:

1. 1. Understand human anatomy, physiology, and pathology related to the musculoskeletal system.
   2. Diagnose and manage orthopaedic and trauma conditions effectively.
   3. Apply appropriate techniques in fracture immobilization and traction.
   4. Assist in orthopaedic and trauma surgical procedures.
   5. Provide emergency and trauma life support.
   6. Participate in rehabilitation and patient recovery programs.
   7. Demonstrate professionalism, ethics, and teamwork in clinical settings.

4. Course Structure

YEAR 1: Foundation and Basic Sciences

• Communication Skills
• Basic Computer Applications
• Human Anatomy and Physiology
• Biochemistry
• Medical Terminology
• First Aid and Basic Life Support (BLS)
• Microbiology and Infection Control
• Pathology and Disease Processes
• Introduction to Orthopaedics and Trauma Medicine
• Medical Ethics and Professional Conduct

YEAR 2: Core Professional Studies

• Principles of Orthopaedics and Fracture Management
• Musculoskeletal Disorders and Deformities
• Radiology and Imaging in Orthopaedics
• Orthopaedic Instruments and Theatre Techniques
• Pharmacology in Orthopaedic Practice
• Traumatology and Emergency Procedures
• Plaster of Paris (POP) and Splint Application Techniques
• Orthopaedic Nursing and Patient Care
• Clinical Placement I (Hospital/Trauma Centre Rotation)

YEAR 3: Advanced and Specialized Studies

• Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS)
• Orthopaedic Surgery Assistance and Techniques
• Rehabilitation and Physiotherapy Principles
• Orthopaedic Appliances and Assistive Devices
• Pediatric and Geriatric Orthopaedics
• Occupational Therapy and Patient Recovery
• Research Methods and Project Work
• Health Systems Management and Leadership
• Clinical Placement II (Comprehensive Hospital Attachment)

5. Teaching and Learning Methods

• Lectures and Tutorials
• Practical Demonstrations and Skills Lab Practice
• Clinical Rotations in Orthopaedic and Trauma Units
• Case Studies and Problem-Based Learning
• Workshops and Simulations
• Research Projects and Presentations

6. Assessment Methods

• Continuous Assessment Tests (CATs)
• Written Examinations
• Practical and Clinical Evaluations
• Logbook and Supervisor Assessments
• Research Project and Oral Defense

7. Career Opportunities

Graduates can work as:

• Orthopaedic and Trauma Technologists
• Plaster Technicians
• Theatre Assistants
• Trauma Care Officers
• Orthopaedic Clinic Supervisors
• Rehabilitation and Orthopaedic Device Specialists

Employment opportunities include:

• Public and Private Hospitals
• Orthopaedic and Trauma Centres
• Rehabilitation and Physiotherapy Units
• NGOs and Emergency Response Organizations
• Teaching and Research Institutions