Page 19 - Orthopedic Casting Manual

2.3 Safety Considerations

Casting is not without r isks. Adher ing to safet y protocols minimizes complic ations and enhances p atient
outcomes.

• Skin Protection
◦ Ensure adequate p adding over bony prominences to prevent pressure sores.
◦ Avoid excessive tightness to prevent constr iction or compromised blood flow.

• Applic ation Technique
◦ Use smooth, even layers to avoid r idges or wr inkles, which c an c ause discomfor t or complic ations.
◦ Over lap layers by 50% to ensure strength without adding unnecessar y bulk.

• Monitoring for Complic ations
◦ Regular ly check for signs of neurovascular compromise: changes in skin color, c apillar y refill time, and
temperature.
◦ Educ ate p atients to repor t symptoms such as numbness, tingling, or excessive swelling immediately

LRobinson, 2020M.
• Wor kplace Safet y
◦ Ensure adequate ventilation when wor king with fiberglass mater ials, as the resin c an produce ir r itating
fumes.
◦ Dispose of waste mater ials proper ly to prevent environmental hazards.
• Cast Saw Safet y Considerations
◦ The oscillating saw is an essential tool for removing hardened c asts but requires c areful handling to

prevent injur y:
• Operator Training: Ensure all users are proper ly trained in the use of the c ast saw, including how to
angle the blade and adjust pressure appropr iately.
• Blade Maintenance: Regular ly inspect the saw blade for dullness or damage, as this c an reduce
efficiency and incre ase the r isk of over he ating.
• Avoid Excessive Pressure: Use light, controlled pressure to allow the blade to cut through the c ast
without generating unnecessar y he at that c an har m the p atientʼs skin.
• Cooling Techniques: Frequently p ause and allow the blade to cool, or use a damp cloth to cool the
blade dur ing ex tended use.
• Patient Safet y: Communic ate with the p atient throughout the procedure to ensure comfor t and address
any concer ns. Remind them to remain still dur ing c ast removal to avoid accidental injur ies.
• Patient Educ ation
◦ Instruct p atients on c ast c are, including keeping non-water proof c asts dr y, avoiding inser ting objects into
the c ast, and monitor ing for complic ations.
◦ Highlight the impor tance of follow-up appointments to adjust or remove the c ast as needed.