Bandages, Splints, and Casts Flashcards
What are the functions of bandages?
Promote healing protect wounds absorption eliminate dead space apply or relieve pressure modulate pain stabilize
Describe the primary layer
Directly in contact with the wound
Should be sterile
What are the functions of the secondary layer of bandage?
Absorbs and holds drainage from wound Provide support or immobilization Decrease dead space Reduce edema Control hemorrhage Holds primary dressing in place
What are some materials used for the secondary dressing?
Rolled cotton
Cast padding
Gauze pads
Rolled gauze
What should be left exposed when applying the secondary bandage layer?
Leave 3-4 digits exposed
What direction should secondary bandages be applied?
Distal to proximal
What is the function of the tertiary layer?
Protection
What are the materials used for the tertiary layer?
Elasticon
Vet wrap
What are some methods of anchoring the bandage?
Stirrups Tape overlay Torso strap Tie over bandage Patch bandage Fur incorporation
Describe the stirrup bandage
Used to anchor limb bandages
2 strips of adhesive tape on healthy skin
Describe the tape overlay bandage
Used for torso and abdominal bandages
Wide circumferential strip
Describe the torso strap bandage
figure 8 bandage material around forelimbs
Describe the tie over bandage
used in areas where circumferential bandage is difficult
tie loose interrupted sutures around periphery
Cover w/ dressing
umbilical tape holds in place
Describe a patch bandage
Used to protect incision lines post-op
Areas that cannot place circumferential bandage
Describe a fur incorporation bandage
Used for tail bandages
Incorporate fur on the last taped layer
What are some things to look for on a patient with a bandage?
Pain/discomfort Swollen/cold digits Foul odor Drainage/discharge Mutilation Fever
T/F: Modified robert-jones bandage provides little support and compression
TRUE
What is the difference of the modified robert-jones and the reinforced modified robert-jones?
Reinforced uses aluminum rods or plastic splints
What splint provides temporary support for fractures or luxations proximal to or including the elbow or stifle?
Spica splint
T/F: Sica splint provides immobilization of upper extremities
TRUE
What sling creates a non-weight bearing forelimb and is commonly used for immobilization after reduction of shoulder luxation?
Valpeau Sling
What position are the carpus and elbow in with a valpeau sling?
Moderate flexion
What sling creates a non-weight bearing hind limb and provides femoral abduction?
Ehmers sling
When is an Ehmers sling indicated?
After reduction of cranial dorsal hip luxation
Where should tape be placed for an Ehmers sling to minimize sliding?
Proximal to the hock
What is the name of the pelvic limb sling?
Robinson sling
When is a robinson sling indicated?
Tibial or femoral fracture repair
Post-op coxofemoral or stifle surgery
WHat is the anchor for the Robinson sling?
2-4 inch belly band
When is a full leg cast contraindicated?
Wounds
Significant inflammation
Femur/humerus
What is the max amount of layers that can be used for cast padding?
2 layers
What type of cast allows reuse of casting material and is indicated when there is anticipation of frequent cast changes?
Bivalved cast
What type of cast is used for fractures at or below the carpus?
Metacarpal/metatarsal splints
