Principles of Splinting, Casts and Backslabs Flashcards
What is the definition of a fracture?
A break in continuity of a bone.
What are the two main classifications of fracture treatment?
- Non-Surgical
- Surgical
List the stages of fracture healing.
- Haematoma Formation
- Cell Proliferation
- Callus Formation
- Consolidation
- Remodelling
How does the speed of fracture healing vary?
Varies with the age of the patient and the size of the bone.
What is the prime treatment objective when managing fractures?
Consider the whole patient, not just the fractured part.
What are the aims of fracture treatment?
- Assess the condition of the patient
- Reduce the fracture
- Stabilise the fracture
- Prevent deformity
- Restore function
What is the function of a splint?
To immobilize orthopaedic injuries.
What are common complications of improper splinting?
- Lack of patient compliance
- Excessive motion at the injury site
- Skin compromise
What are the characteristics of a good cast or splint?
- Applied in correct position
- Functional
- Fits well
- Does not cause constriction
- Smooth inside
- Lightweight
- One whole
What materials are commonly used for casts and splints?
- Plaster of Paris (POP)
- Fibreglass
What is a key difference between Plaster of Paris and fibreglass?
POP is more pliable and has a slower setting time than fibreglass.
What should be documented before splint or cast application?
Skin lesions, soft-tissue injuries, and neurovascular status.
Fill in the blank: The temperature of the water for applying plaster should be _______.
[tepid or slightly warm]
What is the purpose of padding in splint application?
To prevent maceration of underlying skin and accommodate swelling.
What is the ideal positioning for the wrist during splint application?
Slight extension and ulnar deviation.
What are the potential complications of splinting and casting?
- Compartment syndrome
- Thermal injuries to the skin
- Skin breakdown
- Bacterial and fungal infections
- Joint stiffness
What is the most serious complication of casting or splinting?
Compartment syndrome.
What should patients be educated about regarding cast and splint care?
- Importance of elevating extremity
- Splint/cast care and precautions
- Avoid getting the material wet
- Don’t insert objects inside a cast
- Report signs of compartment syndrome
What is the general follow-up time after cast or splint application?
Initial follow-up within one to two weeks.
What factors affect the length of immobilization?
- Site, type, and stability of injury
- Soft tissue status
- Patient characteristics
Describe the cast removal process
Cast removal:
- Removal can be done with Shears or plaster removal saw.
- Care taken not to cause soft tissue damage especially thermal injury
when using saw.
