Orthopaedic Technologist Certified Upper Extremity Casting Questions and Answers

Question 1

A patient with a mid-shaft ulnar and radial fracture (both-bone forearm fracture) requires immobilization. Which casting technique is MOST appropriate to effectively control forearm rotation?

Accepted Answer

Long arm cast

Answer

Short arm cast

Answer

Ulnar gutter splint

Answer

Sugar-tong splint

Question 2

When applying a short arm cast for a distal radius fracture, what is the correct distal landmark for the plaster or fiberglass?

Accepted Answer

The proximal palmar crease

Answer

The distal interphalangeal (DIP) joints

Answer

The wrist crease

Answer

The mid-palm

Question 3

A patient reports intense, burning pain and swelling in their hand 6 hours after a short arm cast was applied for a wrist fracture. Their fingers appear pale and cool to the touch. Which of the following is the MOST critical immediate action?

Accepted Answer

Immediately bivalve or remove the cast and notify the physician.

Answer

Administer pain medication and instruct the patient to elevate the arm.

Answer

Reassure the patient that some swelling and pain is normal.

Answer

Schedule a follow-up appointment for the next day to check the cast fit.

Question 4

When molding a short arm cast, which part of the hand should be used to apply pressure and conform the material to the limb's anatomy?

Accepted Answer

Thenar eminence/palms

Answer

Fingertips

Answer

Knuckles

Answer

Back of the hand

Question 5

Which of the following is a primary advantage of using a sugar-tong splint over a circumferential cast for an acute, unstable distal forearm fracture?

Accepted Answer

It accommodates for initial swelling better than a circumferential cast.

Answer

It provides superior immobilization of the elbow.

Answer

It is less expensive than a traditional cast.

Answer

It allows for earlier range of motion at the wrist.

Question 6

To ensure adequate protection and prevent skin irritation, how should cast padding be applied?

Accepted Answer

With a 50% overlap and extra layers over bony prominences

Answer

Tightly stretched to reduce bulk

Answer

With a 25% overlap between layers

Answer

Applied only over the fracture site