OCC OCC Patient Assessment & Preparation

Question 1

Before applying a cast, what is the FIRST step in patient assessment?

Accepted Answer

Review neurovascular status distal to the injury

Answer

Neurovascular assessment (circulation, sensation, movement) must be performed and documented before any cast application.

Question 2

Which finding during pre-cast assessment would require IMMEDIATE notification of the supervising clinician?

Accepted Answer

Absent distal pulse

Answer

Absent distal pulse indicates potential vascular compromise and must be reported immediately before casting proceeds.

Question 3

When assessing skin integrity before casting, which condition requires special padding or delay of casting?

Accepted Answer

Open wound or skin breakdown over the cast area

Answer

Open wounds or skin breakdown over the planned cast area require special wound management or clinical consultation before casting.

Question 4

How is capillary refill time assessed in a patient about to receive a cast?

Accepted Answer

Press the nail bed, release, and count seconds until color returns

Answer

Normal capillary refill is less than 2 seconds; prolonged refill suggests compromised circulation.

Question 5

Which question is MOST important to ask a patient before cast application regarding allergies?

Accepted Answer

Allergy to latex or plaster

Answer

Latex allergy is critical because stockinettes and gloves may contain latex, and plaster allergy can cause skin reactions.

(OCC) Orthopedic Casting Certification Practice Test