Athletic Trainer
preventing, diagnosing,and treating muscle and bone injuries
A Little About Athletic Trainer
Athletic trainers specialize in preventing, diagnosing, and treating muscle and bone injuries and illnesses. They work with people of all ages and all skill levels, from young children to soldiers and professional athletes.
Duties / Responsibilities
They apply protective devices such as tape, bandages, and braces. Evaluate injuries. Provide first aid or emergency care. Develop and carry out rehabilitation programs for injured athletes. Plan and implement comprehensive programs to prevent injury and illness from athletics. Do administrative tasks, such as keeping records and writing reports on injuries and treatment programs.
Salary / Wage Potential
The lowest 10 percent earned less than $25,750. The median annual wage of athletic trainers was $41,600. The top 10 percent earned more than $64,390.
Education
Athletic trainers need at least a bachelor’s degree, although both bachelor’s and master’s degrees are common. In most states, athletic trainers need a license or certification; requirements vary by state.
Job Outlook
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Skills Required
Applied knowledge. Athletic trainers need to retain medical knowledge. They must evaluate patients’ symptoms, consult with other healthcare professionals, and recommend and administer appropriate treatments.
Decision-making skills. Athletic trainers must be able to make quick decisions that could affect the health or career of their clients.
Detail oriented. Athletic trainers must be able to record detailed, accurate progress and ensure that patients are receiving the appropriate treatments.
Interpersonal skills. Athletic trainers must have strong interpersonal skills and be able to manage sometimes stressful situations. They must be able to communicate well with others, including all type of people