Orthopaedic Technologist Certified Lower Extremity Splinting Questions and Answers

Question 1

A patient presents to the emergency department with an acute, severe ankle sprain with significant swelling. Which of the following is the most appropriate initial method of immobilization?

Accepted Answer

A posterior ankle splint combined with a stirrup splint.

Answer

In acute injuries with significant swelling, a circumferential cast is contraindicated due to the risk of compartment syndrome. A combination of a posterior ankle splint and a stirrup splint provides excellent immobilization while allowing for swelling to subside. A walking boot may not provide sufficient stability for a severe sprain, and surgery is not the initial treatment.

Question 2

When applying a posterior short leg splint, the technologist should ensure the splint extends from the metatarsal heads to where?

Accepted Answer

Approximately 2 inches distal to the fibular head.

Answer

To avoid compression of the common peroneal nerve, a posterior short leg splint should terminate approximately 2 inches (or 2-3 fingerbreadths) distal to the fibular head. Extending it too proximally can lead to nerve palsy and foot drop.

Question 3

An Orthopaedic Technologist is preparing materials for a lower extremity splint on an average-sized adult. Which of the following represents the recommended number of plaster layers for adequate strength?

Accepted Answer

12 to 15 layers

Answer

For a lower extremity splint on an average-sized adult, 12 to 15 layers of plaster are typically required to provide sufficient strength and support. Upper extremities generally require fewer layers (6-10), while using too few on a lower extremity would compromise stability.

Question 4

A patient with a newly applied short leg splint for a non-displaced fibular fracture calls the clinic complaining of increased pain, numbness, and a tingling sensation in their toes. What is the most appropriate immediate action for the Orthopaedic Technologist to advise?

Accepted Answer

Loosen the elastic bandage and come to the clinic for immediate evaluation.

Answer

The patient's symptoms of increased pain, numbness, and tingling are classic warning signs of neurovascular compromise or compartment syndrome. The immediate priority is to reduce constriction. The patient should loosen the wrap and be evaluated immediately to prevent permanent damage.

Question 5

Which of the following is a primary advantage of using a splint over a circumferential cast for an acute lower extremity fracture?

Accepted Answer

It accommodates for soft tissue swelling.

Answer

The main advantage of a splint in the acute setting is that it is non-circumferential, which allows for swelling that naturally occurs after an injury. This significantly reduces the risk of pressure-related complications like skin breakdown and compartment syndrome compared to a rigid, circumferential cast.

Orthopaedic Technologist Certified Test Practice Test

Orthopaedic Technologist Certified Test Practice Test

Orthopaedic Technologist Certified Lower Extremity Splinting Questions and Answers