PDA Scottish Trauma and Orthopaedic Practical Skills
The PDA Scottish Trauma and Orthopaedic Practical Skills is designed for registered nursing staff and technicians working within trauma and orthopaedic services who wish to develop specialist knowledge and practical clinical skills. Delivered by experienced professionals, this industry-focused programme combines the underpinning anatomy and physiology of the musculoskeletal system with hands-on practical learning to support the delivery of safe, effective and evidence-based trauma and orthopaedic care.
Throughout the programme, participants will develop an understanding of trauma and orthopaedic conditions, the physiological principles that underpin treatment and recovery and the practical application of a range of orthopaedic devices used within clinical practice. Learners will gain experience in the assessment, selection, fitting and evaluation of a variety of braces, splints, casts and orthopaedic supports, ensuring they can confidently contribute to patient care and rehabilitation.
The programme provides opportunities to develop practical skills in a supportive learning environment while exploring current best practice, patient safety, clinical decision-making and multidisciplinary working within trauma and orthopaedic services. Academic assessment is also included in the form of written assignments.
Applicants must provide details of their current clinical area of practice and contact details for their line manager in their personal statement.
Content
On successful completion of the award, the learners will be able to:
- Discuss a range of governance related to the clinical care of individuals with orthopaedic trauma injuries.
- Demonstrate knowledge of the physiology and pathophysiology specific to musculoskeletal structures and injuries, and a range of chronic conditions which impact this.
- Be able to describe and apply thorough patient assessment processes, with an awareness of complications related to injury and medical history.
- Recognise common complications of treatment using casting and bracing procedures.
- Assess patients’ suitability for plaster cast application, apply safely using an evidence-based technique and carry out assessment of, trimming, windowing and safe removal of casts using a saw. The learner will be able to link process to own role and complete within their own scope of practice.
- Assess patients’ suitability for brace or splint treatment, apply splints and braces using correct and safe techniques, including Thomas splint application. The learner will be able to fit individuals for and demonstrate the use of mobility aids required safely.
- Apply person-centred care principles throughout all clinical processes, including communication techniques, gaining consent, proving clear safety-netting advice and liaising with professionals as required and appropriate within their own scope of practice.
- Demonstrate effective reflection skills, justification of decision-making processes related to treatment of individuals and escalation.
Career Paths
- Advanced Healthcare Support Worker roles within trauma and orthopaedic departments
Progression
Successful completion of the PDA supports ongoing professional development within trauma and orthopaedic services and demonstrates advanced clinical competence in specialist practice. The qualification can contribute towards career progression, enhanced clinical responsibilities and wider professional development opportunities.
Entry requirements
Applicants must be:
- A registered nurse working within a trauma and orthopaedic clinical area, or
- An orthopaedic technician or healthcare professional employed within a trauma and orthopaedic service
Applicants should have access to a relevant clinical area to support the application of learning in practice, and should seek approval from their line manager before applying.
Alloa Campus
Part-Time
09 September 2026
18 November 2026
9.00
17.00
Level 7
£2500.00