Page 232 - Orthopedic Casts and Splints2

APPLY A COMPRESSION DRESSING WITH A PLASTER SPLINT
081-834-0036
Conditions: Given an orthopaedic patient requiring an lower or upper extremity compression dressing
with plaster splint, sitting or supine on a orthopaedic examination bed, nursing personnel, family
member, physician, physician's verbal or written order, patient's medical record, or Standard Form
513(consultation form), pen , work cart/station, (4) rolls of 6 inch plaster ,box of 4 x 12 inch plaster
reinforcement sheets, box of 5 x 30 inch plaster reinforcement sheets, (4) rolls of 6 inch webril, box of
purified cotton,(2) packages of kerlix fluffs, examination gloves, scissors,(3) elastic bandages, roll of 2
inch adhesive tape, (2) hospital pads(chux),(2) bed sheets, pillow, disposable paper shorts, goniometer,
ruler, tape measure, bucket of tepid water w/ plastic bag , thermometer, cast care booklet or equivalent,
box of alcohol pads, damp wash cloth or towel, sink w/ faucet, orthopaedic bump, thigh holder, 1 pair of
crutches T (Turnstile)stand and trash receptacle.

Standards: Is reached when purified cotton roll or kerlix fluffs with a reinforcement splint are secured to
the injured extremity by (3) elastic bandages. Capillary refill test is administrated to the phalanges and
passed successfully.

Performance Steps

1. Receive the order from the physician (review if in writing).
2. Identify yourself to patient.
NOTE: Tell the patient your name and job title.
3. Explain the procedure to the patient.
NOTE:
For leg application: Purified cotton( Robert Jones/Bulky Jones) is applied from the tips of the toes to 4
inches distal to the groin region. A posterior splint is applied to the cotton with the ankle in neutral
position( 90 degrees dorsiflexion ) . The toes will have full range of motion.

For the hand application: Kerlix fluffs are placed between the fingers and thumb to the proximal
interphalangeal joint (PIP). The Kerlix fluffs are secured with a kerlix roll . A volar splint is secured from
distal palmar crease (DPC) to 1 inch distal to the cubitum space with elastic bandages

CAUTION: During the 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 cast 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 cast may need to be removed.
4. Inspect patient's injured leg/ankle .
CAUTION: Always practice Body Substance Isolation( BSI ) prior to applying traction, splints or casts to
patients.
a. Place examination gloves on hands.
b. Remove patient's shoes and socks from both feet. Roll pants up above the knee.
NOTE: If patient is unable to get pants easily above knee, provide patient with paper shorts . If
unavailable, cut the pants at the seam.
c. Check patient's injured arm or leg for any skin conditions ( e. g. cuts, abrasions, lacerations
and skin rashes ).
NOTE: Inform physician if conditions are present and follow physician's order.
d. Examine both arms or legs for jewelry and remove if found.
NOTE: All jewelry must be removed. Give jewelry to family member or secure with patient's belongings
in NCOIC office

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