EXAMINATION PROCESS

Written Examination

The CSOT written examination can now be completed any time throughout the year provided candidates fit the registration criteria. The written examination is now conducted online with and extended 2.5-hour time limit.  Monitors are still required for the online examination!  The online link for the examination will be sent to the monitor by email approx. 24 hrs prior to the examination.

Written Examination Requirements

• Only Full Members are able to register for the written exam
• Must be a CSOT Member for a minimum of one year (including Student / Full membership levels) 
• provide proof of gainful employment with actively working in the orthopaedic fracture/cast/emergency clinic of a hospital and have done so for at least one full year with a min of 850 hrs (proof will need to be uploaded during the registration process)
• Provide a fully completed Monitor Consent Form (form to be uploaded during registration process)

After successfully passing the written exam, candidates must take part in the next scheduled oral and practical examination, as long as it is more than 90 days following your notification of passing the written. 

If the candidate is unsuccessful in the written exam, a rewrite will take place the falling spring/fall. All candidates have three opportunities to pass the written examination. If unsuccessful after three attempts, a waiting period of two years is required before being permitted to sit the exams again.

All eligible candidates will receive an examination information package with detailed description of the process, expectations and suggested study materials.  Study materials can also be found in the member section of the website.

Oral and Practical Examination

The Oral and Practical examination is available upon successful completion of the written examination and are the final step towards becoming a registered technologist. These examinations will now be offered in the Spring and Fall of each year based on available candidates.

Oral Examination

Each candidate will appear before three examiners. This portion of the exam is approximately 30 minutes in length and will see the candidate express their knowledge of x-ray interpretation, nerve testing for motor and sensory nerves

Practical Examination

In this portion of the exam, the candidate will demonstrate proficiency in each of the following:

• the use and maintenance of tools and equipment used in orthopaedic techniques
• application of orthopaedic dressings and bandages
• application of various types of casts in plaster and fiberglass
• knowledge of principles of aseptic techniques
• fitting crutches and canes and instructions of use
• identification and use of various orthopaedic soft goods (splints, braces etc.)

The Successful Candidate

Upon successful completion of the examinations, a diploma and registry pin with candidate’s registry number engraved on the back will be issued. A letter of notification and diploma will be sent to the Chief of Service. 

Human Resources will receive a letter and an Employer Notification form indicating the candidate’s accomplishment and new role as Registered Orthopaedic Technologist. 

Copies of all letters will also be sent to the candidate.