Page 149 - ASOP Orthopedic Casting Manual

3.5.4 Long Leg Cast cont ...

Fiberglass Cast Tape Applic ation
Applying the fiberglass c ast tape cor rectly is essential for ensur ing a strong, durable, and comfor table or thopedic
long ar m c ast. Here are the steps for effectively applying fiberglass c ast tape:
Prep are f iberglass tape: Put on gloves to protect your hands. The exact number of rolls will depend on
the size of the p atient's ar m and the desired thickness of the c ast.

Select 4- or 5-inch f iberglass rolls (t ypic all y 3]5 rolls are needed, depending on p atient size).

Dip f iberglass tape: Full y submerge a roll of f iberglass tape in lukewar m water for a few seconds to
activate the resin. Squeeze the roll gentl y to remove excess water.

Appl y f iberglass tape: 1. Begin proximall y at the thigh and wrap circumferentiall y, ensur ing even
tension without excessive pressure - per video crating the thigh cylinder with f irst roll; 2.Use a 50%
over lap technique to maintain strength and unifor mit y.

With the nex t roll, continue to cover the knee smoothl y, avoiding cre ases. Reinforce by appl ying 1]2
ex tra layers over the p atella.

Grab another roll and continue wrapping distall y, stopping just above the ankle.

Mold the c ast ( per video): As you appl y the f iberglass tape, use your hands to mold and shape the c ast
around the leg. Appl y gentle pressure to ensure a snug f it without c ausing discomfor t.

Final molding: Once you have re ached the desired thickness, smooth the outer sur face of the c ast
using your hands or a gloved p alm. This will help set the c ast and make it more comfor table for the
p atient. Use the demonstrated molding technique for the upper thigh from the instructional video for
upper ar m.

Cast setting: Allow the f iberglass c ast to harden, which usuall y takes around 10]15 minutes. The c ast
will feel war m as it hardens, which is nor mal.

Inspect the c ast: Once the c ast is set, check for any shar p edges, pressure points, or skin ir r itation.
Tr im or smooth any rough edges as necessar y. Ensure proper circulation by checking the p atient's
c apillar y ref ill time and ensur ing they c an move their f ingers without diff icul t y.

Provide afterc are instructions: Explain to the p atient how to c are for their c ast, including keeping it
dr y, avoiding direct pressure on the c ast, and repor ting any signs of infection or discomfor t.

By following these steps, you c an effectively apply fiberglass c ast tape for an or thopedic shor t ar m c ast,
ensur ing a strong, stable, and comfor table c ast that promotes he aling and p atient satisfaction.