OCC Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield OCC facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. The radial pulse is best assessed in a patient with a short arm cast by palpating at the: → Lateral wrist at the base of the thumb
2. A patient with a forearm cast develops skin maceration and a rash following exposure to water. The best management is: → Remove the cast, treat the skin, and reapply with waterproof liner if appropriate
3. Which type of joint allows the rotational movement required for forearm pronation and supination? → Pivot joint
4. A patient with a long arm cast in 90° flexion complains that the fingers are very swollen and difficult to move 24 hours post-application. The FIRST step is: → Elevate the extremity, apply ice over the cast, and reassess neurovascular status
5. Edema assessment before casting is BEST performed by: → Comparing circumference measurements of both extremities
6. A cast window has been created and the underlying skin is beginning to bulge through the opening. This 'window edema' can be prevented by: → Replacing the cut piece of cast back into the window and securing it
7. What is the approximate full weight-bearing time after application of a standard plaster long leg cast for a stable fracture? → At 48–72 hours once the cast is fully dry
8. A long arm cast is indicated instead of a short arm cast for which type of fracture? → Both-bone forearm fracture (radius and ulna) requiring rotational control
9. A casting record that is incomplete or falsified could result in: → Professional discipline, civil liability, and potential criminal charges
10. What is the primary purpose of windowing a cast? → To allow inspection and wound care of a specific area without full cast removal
11. Which type of bone cell is responsible for resorbing bone during the remodeling phase of fracture healing? → Osteoclast
12. A cast that is too loose will most likely result in which complication? → Malunion due to inadequate fracture immobilization
13. A patient reports numbness and tingling in the fingers before cast application. This finding should be: → Documented and reported to the supervising clinician before proceeding
14. Which of the following transmission routes is most relevant when applying a cast to a patient with active influenza? → Droplet transmission
15. A Doppler ultrasound probe is used during neurovascular assessment primarily to: → Detect arterial blood flow when a pulse is not palpable
16. A patient has a known latex allergy. The casting technician should use: → Latex-free gloves and non-latex stockinette
17. Which professional behavior is consistent with maintaining ethical standards in orthopedic casting practice? → Refusing to perform a procedure you are not trained for and escalating to qualified staff
18. Which component of the neurovascular bundle runs through the carpal tunnel along with the flexor tendons? → Median nerve
19. A casting technician smells alcohol on a coworker's breath before a patient procedure. The most appropriate action is to: → Remove the coworker from the situation discreetly and report to a supervisor immediately
20. After cast removal, which skin finding requires the clinician's evaluation before the patient is discharged? → Open pressure sore or wound
21. What is the primary advantage of fiberglass casting material over plaster? → It is lighter and water-resistant
22. What should be done if a cast technician experiences a needle-stick injury? → Report it and follow post-exposure protocol
23. What is the professional responsibility of a certified orthopedic technician? → Ensure safe and ethical practice
24. Ear protection during cast removal with an oscillating saw is recommended primarily for: → The patient and technician, as prolonged noise can cause discomfort
25. A Jones fracture is located at which anatomical site? → Base of the fifth metatarsal at the metaphyseal-diaphyseal junction
26. For a pediatric patient with an upper extremity fracture, what thumb position is standard in a thumb spica cast? → Thumb in palmar abduction and slight opposition, as if holding a glass
27. When applying a short arm cast, the wrist should typically be positioned in how many degrees of dorsiflexion? → 10–20 degrees
28. How frequently should neurovascular checks be performed during the first 24 hours after application of a new cast? → Every 1–2 hours
29. When converting a circumferential cast to a bivalved cast for home use, how are the two shells secured? → With an elastic (ACE) bandage wrapped over both halves
30. For a long leg cast, the knee is typically immobilized in how many degrees of flexion? → 20–30 degrees of flexion