Name: Orthopaedic Nurse Description: Cares for the actual and potential health problems related to musculoskeletal function; relies on a holistic approach in their assessment of the impact of musculoskeletal conditions on self-care, patient management of the environment, available patient resources, and support systems Diagnoses: Arthritis, joint replacement, diabetes, fractures, and musculoskeletal injuries, congenital malformations Practice roles: Staff nurse, clinical nurse specialist, nurse case manager, head nurse, supervisor, coordinator, director, executive Characteristics: Patient care and relationships, making a difference, teamwork, cases of dramatic improvement, variety of patients’ ages and illnesses Client age group: All ages Drawbacks: Multiple demands of staffing and workload, difficult patient contacts, stress, physical strain, excessive paperwork Desirable skills: Physical stamina, people skills, teamwork, flexibility Education: RN with AD, Diploma, or BSN (preferred) Employers: Hospitals including specialty hospitals, extended-care facilities, home- health agencies, physician offices, HMOs Certification: Orthopaedic Nursing Certification Board 401 N. Michigan Ave. Suite 2200 Chicago, IL 60611 888-561-ONCB Publications: Orthopaedic Nursing Journal   NAON News 609-256-2310