Page 61 - Orthopedic Casts and Splints2

Performance Steps

7. Assemble materials to include stockinette, webril, plaster and fiberglass rolls, fiberglass casting
gloves, examination gloves, hospital pad (chux), bed sheet, sling, plaster reinforcement splint,
tube of surgical lubricant, alcohol pads or damp wash towel. Open and remove (3) plaster rolls
from packages and place on work cart/station.
NOTE: Physician's order, technician's preference, availability of supplies, and/or patient's extremity
size will determine which casting material (fiberglass/plaster) will be used.
8. Prepare stockinette.
NOTE: Stockinette is generally used for all casts except on patients who have had recent surgery,
recently reduced fractures, technician's preference or as directed by the physician. Stockinette and
webril are forms of protection against the exothermic reaction of the casting materials .
a. Place hospital pad or bed sheet on patient's lap.
NOTE: All patient's should be given a covering( e.g. chux, bed sheet) to reduce damaging their
clothing during the casting process.
b. Place work cart with orthopaedic bump at edge of bed.
NOTE: Technician preference will determine if orthopaedic bump is used. A number of props may be
use ( e.g. T stand(turnstile casting stand), finger trap stand, nursing assistant )
c. Place patient's uninjured elbow on the orthopaedic bump at a 45 degree angle to the upper
torso.
NOTE: Measurements are taken on the uninjured arm to prevent further pain or discomfort to the
patient.

NOTE: Instruments of measurements may vary (e.g. tape measure, ruler, or webril).
d. Measure from the cubitum space( bend of elbow) to 2 inches distal to the MCPJ's for
stockinette length.
e. Pull down stockinette from stockinette container and cut measured length.
f. Roll stockinette leaving a 1-2 inch cuff at the distal end. Place on work cart/station for later
use.(Refer to Figure 3-x)

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