Basic Rules
Care of the patient:
Check the patients details and written medical prescription/request.
Give reassurance, explanations and request permission from the patient to proceed.
Children need a trusted adult with them for their comfort and support.
Assess the patient:
What is the pathology?
Why is the cast being applied?
Is there an underlying condition that may affect the way you apply the cast, e.g. diabetes,
rheumatoid, neurological impairment or allergies?
Look at the skin. Is there a wound or redness?
Which bony areas will need extra padding?
Where are the blood vessels or nerves that are close to the surface and maybe
compromised?
Is swelling expected?
Based on the answer to these questions, decide on the appropriate padding and materials
required, having them all laid out on your trolley ready.
Check the medical prescription/request again
General Preparation of the Patient
•
Explain the procedure in order to gain the patients co-operation, reduce
stress and increase the patients understanding of their injury/condition
•
Maintain dignity and privacy and protect clothing, appropriately screen
and cover the patient prior to the procedure
•
Remove any rings or jewellery and nail polish from the effected part,
because of swelling and discolouration after injury or
surgery there may
be a risk of masking signs or sudden recurrence of swelling. These
should not be replaced until the cast is
removed
•
Position the affected limb in the prescribed position, promoting the best
functional position for healing. This must be held and maintained until the
cast is dry, by an assistant if necessary