OTC Orthopaedic Technologist Certified Lower Extremity Splinting 5

Question 1

A patient with an open (compound) lower extremity fracture requires wound care before splinting. The splint should be applied:

Accepted Answer

After sterile dressing has been placed over the wound

Answer

A sterile dressing must cover the open wound before splinting to reduce infection risk while providing immobilization.

Question 2

When padding the malleoli during ankle splinting, which type of padding provides the best contouring protection?

Accepted Answer

Extra layers of cotton webril/cast padding

Answer

Extra layers of cotton webril padding over the malleoli distribute pressure and prevent pressure sores under the rigid splint.

Question 3

A patient presents with a suspected Lisfranc injury. The appropriate initial splinting includes:

Accepted Answer

Short leg posterior splint with U-slab in neutral position, non-weight-bearing

Answer

Lisfranc injuries require a short leg posterior splint with stirrup in neutral position and strict non-weight-bearing due to instability at the tarsometatarsal joint.

Question 4

Which elastic bandage technique is used to secure a lower extremity splint, and why?

Accepted Answer

Spiral wrap from distal to proximal without excessive tension

Answer

A spiral wrap from distal to proximal with moderate tension secures the splint while allowing venous return and minimizing constriction.

Question 5

Peroneal nerve injury is a known complication of a poorly applied long leg splint. Where is this nerve most vulnerable?

Accepted Answer

Lateral aspect of the fibular head

Answer

The common peroneal nerve wraps around the fibular neck just distal to the fibular head, where it is superficial and at risk from pressure.

Orthopaedic Technologist Certified Test Practice Test

Orthopaedic Technologist Certified Test Practice Test

OTC Orthopaedic Technologist Certified Lower Extremity Splinting 5