OTC Orthopaedic Technologist Certified Lower Extremity Splinting 4

Question 1

When applying a posterior knee splint for a patellar tendon rupture, the knee should be immobilized in:

Accepted Answer

Full extension (0 degrees)

Answer

Full extension reduces tension on the ruptured patellar tendon and approximates the torn ends for optimal healing.

Question 2

Which of the following best describes the function of the stockinette layer in lower extremity splinting?

Accepted Answer

Protects skin from direct contact with padding and splint material

Answer

Stockinette is a soft tubular knit fabric applied first to protect the skin from padding materials and reduce irritation.

Question 3

For an acute Achilles tendon rupture, the initial splint position for the foot and ankle is:

Accepted Answer

Plantar flexion (20–30 degrees)

Answer

20–30 degrees of plantar flexion approximates the ruptured Achilles tendon ends, reducing gap and promoting healing.

Question 4

When molding a short leg posterior splint, you should mold it while the plaster is still:

Accepted Answer

Setting but still pliable (doughy stage)

Answer

The doughy stage provides the ideal consistency for molding to the limb contour before the plaster sets completely.

Question 5

A patient with a proximal tibia fracture being splinted with a long leg posterior splint should have the knee positioned in:

Accepted Answer

5–10 degrees of flexion

Answer

5–10 degrees of knee flexion relaxes the posterior capsule and prevents hyperextension while keeping the limb in a functional position.

Orthopaedic Technologist Certified Test Practice Test