Cyanosis or blanching of the fingers or toes extending from a cast usually indicates impaired blood flow, which may lead to serious complications if not corrected immediately. If a limb is enclosed in a cast it should be elevated to reduce swelling. Any numbness, recurrent pain, or tingling should be reported at once. Observation of the patient for signs of impaired circulation, pressure against a nerve, or compartmental syndrome is extremely important. Both samples then had artificial cracks induced by. To minimize crumbling of the edges and irritation of the skin around and under the cast, a strip of stockinette or adhesive tape is applied so that the rim of the cast is thoroughly covered. Each had a perforated PVC tube cast inside, capable of delivering water pressure throughout the samples. Synthetic casts, however, may be set or cured with heat. Extreme heat should not be used to hasten drying of a plaster of Paris cast, as this may produce burns under the cast. While the cast is drying it is left uncovered to allow circulation of air around it. When handling a wet cast only the palm or flat of the hand is used so that the fingertips will not make indentations that might produce pressure against the patient's skin. Several small pillows should be available for placing under the curves of the cast to prevent remolding or cracking of the plaster and to provide adequate support of the patient. If the patient is confined to bed after a plaster of Paris cast is applied, it is necessary to provide a firm mattress protected by a waterproof material.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |