ASSISTING IN APPLICATION OFCAST
(PLASTER OF PARIS & FIBERGLASS CAST
Prepared by:
Maricel D. Abalona RN, MN
Cast
A mold mad of plaster of Paris or fiberglass which is used to immobilize the
trunk or any body part so that a fracture of a bone, a dislocation or an
injury to soft tissue can heal.
Plaster of Paris.
A hard but fairly light substance.
Crinoline (a firmly woven cotton fabric)
rolls impregnated with plaster of Paris
are immersed in water and molded to a
body part to form a cast.
Fiberglass Cast
Also referred to as a ‘light” cast because
of its light weight. It is a roll of
synthetic cast material that is in sealed
moisture-proof packages that begin to
harden as soon as the package is
opened. These materials come in a
wide variety of colors.
RATIONALE
1. To immobilize the trunk or a body part.
2. To allow healing of a bone fracture, a dislocation, or a soft tissue injury.
EQUIPMENTS Wadding sheet Cast Padding
Casting material depending (cotton cast
on the type of cast to be padding)
applied
Cast saw in case windowing Synthetic Cast
is needed Padding material Stockinette
for finishing cast
Adhesive cloth tape Plastic apron and gloves
Large,
heavy-duty Rolls of Plaster of Paris
scissors
A bucket of water
Cast knife for
trimming
PLANNING AND IMPLEMENTATION
Review the client’s record
Inspect the skin over which the cast is to be
applied for any abrasions or interruptions
in skin integrity. Look for signs of edema
that may intensify pressure caused by the
cast.
Find out what the client knows about the
procedure. Determine if the physician has
ordered a sedative to be given 30 minutes
before casting.
Wash your hands.
Gather equipment on a cart.
Identify the client.
Drape the client. Place a plastic-covered
sheet or pillow under the part to be casted.
Offer emotional support and reassurance to
the client
Assist the physician in applying the cast.
When the cast is completed, remove excess
material from the client’s skin.
11. Position the client to support the cast.
12. Handle the cast until it is completely dry. Use the
flat side of the palm of your hands.
13. Elevate the extremity slightly higher than the heart.
14. Leave the cast uncovered during drying period.
15. Provide client teaching as to
16. Monitoring of the cast area
17. Length of time for the cast to dry.
18. Importance of reporting feelings of pain, pressure, or altered sensation.
19. Aftercare of equipment. Wash your hands.
EVALUATION AND DOCUMENTATION
1. Evaluate the following:
a) Client’s comfort
b) Condition of the cast
c) Neurovascular status, including circulation, motion, and sensation of the
affected part.
2. Document the type of cast applied, the date and time, the client’s comfort
and neurovascular status.