Casts and Application Techniques

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary purpose of elastic bandages in post-surgery care?

To completely immobilize the affected area

To promote bone healing through rigidity

To permanently bind the surgical site

To provide compression and minimize swelling (correct)

In correcting bone or joint deformities, which condition is often specifically mentioned?

Osteoporosis

Arthritis

Tendinitis

Clubfoot (correct)

What is a significant characteristic of Plaster of Paris (POP) casts?

They allow for complete movement of the injured area

They harden when mixed with water (correct)

They do not harden when mixed with water

They are lighter than elastic bandages

When applying an elastic bandage, in which direction should it be applied to effectively promote venous return?

From distal to proximal Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following represents a characteristic of elastic bandages compared to traditional casts?

They are stretchable and can conform to the body Signup and view all the answers

What materials are commonly used to make a cast?

Plaster or fiberglass Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of a cast?

To promote healing and immobilize the affected area Signup and view all the answers

What should be assessed before applying a cast?

The condition of the skin for lesions or abnormalities Signup and view all the answers

Why should toes or fingertips be visible after applying a cast?

For assessment of circulation and condition Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the main functions of bandaging technique when applying a cast?

To prevent movement and provide support Signup and view all the answers

Which step is NOT important in the preparation for casting?

Estimate the patient's pain level Signup and view all the answers

What is a benefit of using a cast for musculoskeletal injuries?

It provides stability and proper alignment for healing Signup and view all the answers

How should a bandage be secured properly?

With tape or pins to ensure it stays in place Signup and view all the answers

Which type of cast is water-resistant and dries quickly?

Fiberglass Casts Signup and view all the answers

What is a common use for elastic bandages?

To secure dressings Signup and view all the answers

Which material is known for offering good strength while being lightweight?

Polyester Fabric Signup and view all the answers

What is a critical first step in patient care before applying a cast?

Preparing the area Signup and view all the answers

Which type of cast is similar to fiberglass but made with different fabric?

Polyester Casts Signup and view all the answers

What can excessive pressure during casting lead to?

Pressure sores or neurovascular damage Signup and view all the answers

Which statement is true regarding fiberglass casts?

They reach full rigidity in about 30 minutes. Signup and view all the answers

For which condition might elastic bandages typically be used?

Sprains Signup and view all the answers

What should patients be instructed to report while wearing a cast?

Unusual sensations or odors Signup and view all the answers

Which assessment should be a priority for a nurse caring for a patient with a cast?

Assessing capillary refill and pulse Signup and view all the answers

What is one important piece of patient education regarding cast care?

Avoid inserting objects under the cast Signup and view all the answers

What symptom might indicate a complication related to a cast?

Swelling or discoloration in the extremity Signup and view all the answers

What precaution should be taken to prevent pressure ulcers while using a cast?

Reposition the extremity regularly Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following actions is NOT recommended for a patient with a cast?

Massaging the casted area to relieve pain Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following should be regularly monitored for patients in casts?

Drainage or signs of infection Signup and view all the answers

What is a key symptom that patients should be educated to report related to cast care?

Foul odor or persistent pain Signup and view all the answers

What is a key indicator of potential compartment syndrome in a casted limb?

Weak or absent pulse Signup and view all the answers

What should be done to help reduce swelling in a casted extremity?

Elevate the casted extremity Signup and view all the answers

What are possible psychological reactions related to immobility caused by a cast?

Nausea and anxiety Signup and view all the answers

What is an important care instruction for maintaining a cast?

Keep the cast clean and dry Signup and view all the answers

Increased immobility due to casting can lead to which of the following complications?

Increased risk of urinary tract infections Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a sign of compartment syndrome that should be assessed?

Increased heart rate Signup and view all the answers

What can prolonged immobility from casting lead to aside from physical complications?

Psychological distress Signup and view all the answers

What does not contribute to proper cast care?

Adding extra padding under the cast frequently Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Cast Definition and Purpose

A cast is an immobilizing device made from plaster of paris or fiberglass used to support a specific body part during healing
Casts promote healing by immobilizing the affected area to prevent movement
Casts can be used for fractures, musculoskeletal injuries, post-surgical care, correction of joint deformities, and to provide support for bones and joints
Casts help align bone fragments correctly during healing

Cast Application Techniques

Before applying a cast: Assess the skin for abrasions, lesions, or abnormalities.
Bandaging Technique: Hold the bandage in one hand, wrap it around the body part, and ensure toes or fingertips are visible for assessment.
Securing the Bandage: Use tape or pins to secure the bandage in place, ensuring proper tension and coverage to avoid constriction.
Applying an Elastic Bandage: Apply from distal to proximal to promote venous return. Use various patterns like figure-eight or spiral based on the body part.

Types of Casts

Plaster of Paris Casts: Traditional casting material that hardens when mixed with water, provides good support, but is heavy and less breathable.
Fiberglass Casts: Water-resistant, dries quickly, and reaches full rigidity in 30 minutes; lightweight and more durable than plaster.
Polyester Casts: Similar to fiberglass but made with polyester fabric, offers good strength, lightweight, and water-resistant.

Elastic Bandages

Stretchable fabric strips that provide compression to reduce swelling and stabilize injuries.
Used for conditions like sprains, varicose veins, and to secure dressings and immobilize joints.

Cast Care Instructions

Keep the cast clean and dry, avoid moisture.
Elevate the casted extremity to reduce swelling.
Regularly assess for signs of compartment syndrome, including pain, swelling, discoloration, weak or absent pulse in the affected area, and unusual sensations or odors.
Instruct patients to report any unusual symptoms or changes.
Avoid inserting objects under the cast.

Nursing Care for Patients with Casts

Assess capillary refill and pulse in the extremity.
Monitor for pressure ulcers and odor.
Assess skin integrity for signs of infection or drainage.
Check for pain, swelling, and discoloration.
Reposition the extremity and apply ice as needed.
Provide pain management and educate patients on symptoms to report.
Educate patients on how to care for the cast during daily activities.

Complications of Casts

Compartment Syndrome: Caused by pressure on neurovascular and bony structures, can lead to pain, swelling, discoloration, weak or absent pulse, unusual sensations, nausea, anxiety, and respiratory issues.
Immobility: Can lead to psychological reactions, increased risk of urinary tract infections, and pressure ulcers.

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Description

This quiz explores the definition and purpose of casts as well as techniques for their application. It covers important aspects such as immobilization for healing, assessment prerequisites, and bandaging methods. Test your knowledge on how casts support recovery from injuries and surgeries.