Page 216 - Orthopedic Casts and Splints2

APPLY A SHORT ARM VOLAR SPLINT
081-834-0033
Conditions: Given an orthopaedic patient requiring a Short Arm Splint (SAS), sitting or supine on a
orthopaedic examination bed, family member, nursing personnel, physician, physician's verbal or written
order, patient's medical record, or Standard Form 513(consultation form), pen , work cart/station, (3) rolls
of 4 inch plaster , box of 4 x 15 inch plaster reinforcement sheets, (3) rolls of 4 inch webril, (2) 3 inch
elastic bandages, examination gloves, 1 pair of scissors, roll of 2 inch adhesive tape, (2) hospital pads
(chux), bed sheet, pillow, goniometer, ruler, tape measure, bucket of tepid water w/ plastic bag, sling,
cast care booklet or equivalent, box of alcohol pads, damp wash cloth or towel, sink w/ faucet,
orthopaedic bump, thermometer and trash receptacle.

Standards: Is reached when a short arm splint is secured to the volar aspect of the patient's injured arm
from the distal palmar crease(DPC)/metacarpophalangeal joints(MCPJ'S) to 1 inch distal to the cubitum
space by (2) elastic bandages. The wrist is measured between 0-15 degrees of dorsal extension(absent
of ulnar or radial deviation, pronation or supination), with the fingers and thumb having full range of
motion. Capillary refill test is administered to the fingers and thumb and passed successfully.

Performance Steps
1. Receive the order from the physician( review if in writing)

2. Identify yourself to the patient.
NOTE: Tell the patient your name and job title.

3. Explain the procedure to the patient.
NOTE: The Short Arm Splint (SAS ) is applied from the distal palmar crease (DPC) to 1inch distal to the
cubitum space with wrist between 0-15 degrees of dorsal extension. The wrist will be absent of radial,
ulnar deviation, pronation, supination with the fingers and thumb having full range of motion(ROM).

CAUTION: During splinting application a chemical response(exothermic reaction) will occur between the
water (H2O) and the plaster (gypsum). This is a safe and common occurrence. The splint will initially
become warm and cool down within 2-5 minutes. However, if it doesn't cool down or there is an increase
of heat intensity during the cast application, the splint may need to be removed.

4. Inspect patient's arms.
a. Place examination gloves on hands.
CAUTION: Always practice Body Substance Isolation (BSI) prior to applying traction, splints or casts to
patients.
b. Place patient sitting or supine on examination bed.
c. Inspect both arms for any skin conditions(e.g. cuts, abrasions, laceration and skin rashes).
NOTE: Inform physician if conditions are present and follow physician's instruction.
d. Examine both arms and wrists for jewelry and remove if found.
NOTE: All jewelry on both hands and wrist must be removed. Give jewelry to family member or secure
with patient's belongings in NCOIC office.

5. Check capillary refill of patient's hands/fingers.
a. Squeeze patient's fingers and nail beds will turn white.
b. Release patient's fingers and nail beds will return pink.
CAUTION: If capillary refill is delayed for more than 2 seconds inform physician and follow physician's
instruction.
6. Gather equipment to include scissors, thermometer, goniometer, ruler and bucket of tepid water
w/ plastic bag. Place on work cart or station.

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