OTC Orthopaedic Technologist Certified Cast Complications and Removal 5

Question 1

A patient with a long arm cast reports inability to extend the wrist and fingers. This finding is most consistent with compression of the:

Accepted Answer

Radial nerve at the lateral epicondyle

Answer

Inability to extend the wrist and fingers (wrist drop) indicates radial nerve compression, which commonly occurs at the level of the elbow under a long arm cast.

Question 2

Cast itch (pruritus) should be managed by:

Accepted Answer

Blowing cool air into the cast with a hair dryer on cool setting

Answer

Blowing cool air into the cast with a hair dryer on the cool (not hot) setting is a safe method to relieve itching without risking skin injury.

Question 3

When is it appropriate to cut a cast window?

Accepted Answer

To inspect or treat a wound beneath the cast

Answer

A cast window is cut to provide direct access to a wound for dressing changes or inspection without requiring full cast removal.

Question 4

After cutting a cast window, the removed piece should be:

Accepted Answer

Replaced and secured to prevent 'window edema'

Answer

The cast window plug should be replaced and secured after each wound inspection to prevent localized swelling (window edema) in the exposed area.

Question 5

A patient presents 3 weeks after cast application with a documented fracture that appears malaligned on X-ray. The MOST appropriate initial step is:

Accepted Answer

Notify the supervising physician

Answer

Fracture malalignment discovered during follow-up requires physician notification to determine whether reduction or surgical intervention is needed.

Orthopaedic Technologist Certified Test Practice Test

Orthopaedic Technologist Certified Test Practice Test

OTC Orthopaedic Technologist Certified Cast Complications and Removal 5