Definition:
The derivation of the term "orthopaedic" is from the Greek - orthos (straight) and paedis (child). The historic definition "the rearing of straight children" remains an important concept within the modern definition - the study of the form and function of the human frame.
Scope:
Orthopaedic care may take place in the home, clinic, community, acute care ward, long term facility or hospice, or anywhere else that care is needed.
The success of orthopaedic care is in the team approach, the recognition of the skills and limitations of each member and acceptance of the client/patient as central and contributing to the plan of care.
Major Concepts:
Careful consultation is required to formulate admission, transfer and discharge plans as part of the overall plan of care.
Orthopaedic care involves all phases from prevention & maintenance, through early recognition of dysfunction, diagnoses, treatment, restoration of function and rehabilitation.
People of all ages may develop locomotive problems through a variety of causes.
The discipline of orthopaedics incorporates various subspecialties (eg. trauma, rheumatology & paediatrics).