OTC Orthopaedic Technologist Certified Upper Extremity Casting 3

Question 1

A thumb spica cast immobilizes the thumb and wrist but leaves which joints free?

Accepted Answer

The interphalangeal (IP) joint of the thumb

Answer

A standard thumb spica cast immobilizes the wrist and the thumb MCP joint but leaves the thumb IP joint free for movement.

Question 2

Which condition is the most common indication for a thumb spica cast?

Accepted Answer

Scaphoid fracture

Answer

Scaphoid fractures are among the most common indications for thumb spica casting because the scaphoid's blood supply requires prolonged immobilization.

Question 3

To prevent a Volkmann's ischemic contracture, which neurovascular check is most critical in the first hours after upper extremity casting?

Accepted Answer

Capillary refill time and skin color in the fingertips

Answer

Capillary refill and fingertip color are early, reliable indicators of vascular compromise that precedes Volkmann's contracture.

Question 4

Cast saw injuries most commonly occur because patients do not understand that the blade moves in what type of motion?

Accepted Answer

Oscillating (back-and-forth) motion

Answer

The cast saw blade oscillates rather than spins, which cuts hard cast material without cutting skin when used correctly, but patients fear it cuts like a circular saw.

Question 5

When splitting a cast bivalve style, what is the correct sequence of steps?

Accepted Answer

Cut both sides, spread cast, cut padding and stockinette

Answer

Bivalving requires cutting both medial and lateral sides, spreading the cast, then cutting the underlying padding and stockinette to fully relieve pressure.

Orthopaedic Technologist Certified Test Practice Test

Orthopaedic Technologist Certified Test Practice Test

OTC Orthopaedic Technologist Certified Upper Extremity Casting 3