OTC Orthopaedic Technologist Certified Cast Complications and Removal 2

Question 1

A patient with a short arm cast reports burning pain that started 30 minutes after application. The most appropriate immediate action is:

Accepted Answer

Bivalve the cast immediately

Answer

Burning pain shortly after cast application suggests pressure or thermal injury, requiring immediate bivalving to relieve pressure and inspect the skin.

Question 2

Which of the following is the MOST common site for a pressure ulcer in a patient wearing a long leg cast?

Accepted Answer

Fibular head

Answer

The fibular head is a prominent bony prominence and a high-risk site for pressure ulcer development beneath a long leg cast.

Question 3

When using a cast saw to remove a fiberglass cast, the blade should be moved in which motion to avoid skin injury?

Accepted Answer

Up-and-down oscillating plunge cuts

Answer

The oscillating saw blade should be used with up-and-down plunge cuts rather than dragging, which reduces heat buildup and risk of laceration.

Question 4

A patient's cast has developed a foul odor and the patient reports fever. These findings most likely indicate:

Accepted Answer

Infection beneath the cast

Answer

Foul odor combined with fever are classic signs of infection under a cast, requiring urgent cast removal and wound assessment.

Question 5

After bivalving a cast, the two halves should be secured with:

Accepted Answer

Elastic bandage (ACE wrap)

Answer

After bivalving, an elastic bandage is wrapped around the cast halves to hold them in place while still allowing circumferential decompression.

Orthopaedic Technologist Certified Test Practice Test

Orthopaedic Technologist Certified Test Practice Test

OTC Orthopaedic Technologist Certified Cast Complications and Removal 2