Today our topic of discussion is Types of Casts.
Types of Casts
Types of Casts
- Short arm cast: It extends from; below the elbow to the proximal palm crease
- Gauntlet cast: It extends from below the elbow to the proximal palm crease, including the thumb
- Long arm cast: It extends from the upper level of auxiliary fold to the proximal palm crease. The elbow usually is immobilized
- Short leg cast: It extends from below the knee to the base of the toes (Fig. 26.4A)
- Long leg cast: It extends from the junction of the upper and the middle third of the thigh to the base of the toes
- Walking cast: It is a short or long leg cast with a walking device (Fig. 26.4C)
- Body cast: It incorporates a position of the trunk and one or two extremities
- Shoulder spica cast: It is a body jacket that encloses the trunk and the shoulder and elbow.
Casting Material
- Plaster cast (Plaster of Paris)
- Non-plaster: It is of light weight and increased strength water resistant and durable. They are made of non- absorbent fabric impregnated with hardness. They are porous and therefore diminish skin problems. They do not soften when wet, which allows use of wastes for treatment
Equipment
- For Plaster Cast
- Rolls of plaster 3, 4, or 6 inch rolls.
- Skin protective materials.
- Padding various widths gloves and apron of protective cover scissors with blunt end Bowls
- Water, cool at time of application
- Positioning equipment, e.g. fracture table or chair
- Walking heel (various shapes and sizes)-if needed
- Weights, weight holder or stockinet.
Preparation of the Patient and the Environment
- Determine reason for and type of cast being applied
- Examine skin on body part for lacerations, abrasions or ecchymosis
- Assess the affected part for circulatory and neuro- muscular status: color, temperature response to touch ability to move
- Determine if client currently has complications of immobilization.