CPSS KEY POINTS - EXAM QUESTIONS WITH
CORRECT ANSWERS
Do what three physical examination tasks after wearing a cast or splint?
ANSWER motor sensor testing for refilling caps
Fiberglass or Plaster?
easier to shape to an extremity, especially for obese patients
It is a preferred splinting material in trauma and post-operative settings because
it absorbs (or "wicks") underlying wound drainage.
ANSWER plaster benefits: washed off with washing and water
heavier but less resilient
If wet, it will soften and decompose.
Heat is released throughout the healing process *(exothermic rxn/burn risk)* →
especially in patients with sensory impairments (apply cold water).
ANSWER plaster drawbacks: Gloves are not required.
ANSWER (Exothermic rxn/burn danger) is the primary drawback of plaster
casts, particularly for patients with sensory impairments.
What kind of material is best for walking or weight-bearing casts? The
fiberglass answer
Excellent durability, low weight, and ease of use
Completely waterproof, with dry interior padding
Numerous color options—ANSWER fiberglass benefits
Air moisture will start the curing process too soon (plaster-cast material is not
affected by this).
More costly
When putting fiberglass, gloves and an apron should be worn. ANSWER
drawbacks of fiberglass
, Cast should be avoided for three reasons. ANSWER 1. When significant
swelling of the extremity is anticipated during the acute injury period, which
typically lasts three to four days
2. When a known illness of the skin or soft tissues would be covered or hidden
by the cast
3. When an open wound is covered or hidden by a cast, infection could result.
How long after the acute injury phase should casting be avoided? ANSWER: 3–
4 days, which enables the swelling to subside (use a splint initially).
Standard pressure (5–10 mm Hg)
ANSWER 30: Compartment Syndrome pressure (> _____ mm Hg)
ANSWER compartment syndrome is characterized by pain that worsens over
time and is disproportionate to the extent of the damage.
ANSWER Whiteside technique: Measure compartment pressure using a needle,
intravenous tubing, a three-way stopcock, and a mercury manometer.
Does compartment syndrome result from MC injuries? ANSWER arterial
laceration or crush injury
Damage from T/F compartment syndrome cannot be reversed.
Volkmann Ischemic Contracture: Muscle necrosis and loss of function in the
affected hand and arm
arise from finger indentations brought on by incorrect handling of a cast or
splint during insertion, or from insufficient padding over bony prominences -
ANSWER pressure sores
Prevent → Until the plaster or fiberglass hardens, it should be handled using the
palm of the hand rather than the fingertips (fingertips may create pressure
sores).
CORRECT ANSWERS
Do what three physical examination tasks after wearing a cast or splint?
ANSWER motor sensor testing for refilling caps
Fiberglass or Plaster?
easier to shape to an extremity, especially for obese patients
It is a preferred splinting material in trauma and post-operative settings because
it absorbs (or "wicks") underlying wound drainage.
ANSWER plaster benefits: washed off with washing and water
heavier but less resilient
If wet, it will soften and decompose.
Heat is released throughout the healing process *(exothermic rxn/burn risk)* →
especially in patients with sensory impairments (apply cold water).
ANSWER plaster drawbacks: Gloves are not required.
ANSWER (Exothermic rxn/burn danger) is the primary drawback of plaster
casts, particularly for patients with sensory impairments.
What kind of material is best for walking or weight-bearing casts? The
fiberglass answer
Excellent durability, low weight, and ease of use
Completely waterproof, with dry interior padding
Numerous color options—ANSWER fiberglass benefits
Air moisture will start the curing process too soon (plaster-cast material is not
affected by this).
More costly
When putting fiberglass, gloves and an apron should be worn. ANSWER
drawbacks of fiberglass
, Cast should be avoided for three reasons. ANSWER 1. When significant
swelling of the extremity is anticipated during the acute injury period, which
typically lasts three to four days
2. When a known illness of the skin or soft tissues would be covered or hidden
by the cast
3. When an open wound is covered or hidden by a cast, infection could result.
How long after the acute injury phase should casting be avoided? ANSWER: 3–
4 days, which enables the swelling to subside (use a splint initially).
Standard pressure (5–10 mm Hg)
ANSWER 30: Compartment Syndrome pressure (> _____ mm Hg)
ANSWER compartment syndrome is characterized by pain that worsens over
time and is disproportionate to the extent of the damage.
ANSWER Whiteside technique: Measure compartment pressure using a needle,
intravenous tubing, a three-way stopcock, and a mercury manometer.
Does compartment syndrome result from MC injuries? ANSWER arterial
laceration or crush injury
Damage from T/F compartment syndrome cannot be reversed.
Volkmann Ischemic Contracture: Muscle necrosis and loss of function in the
affected hand and arm
arise from finger indentations brought on by incorrect handling of a cast or
splint during insertion, or from insufficient padding over bony prominences -
ANSWER pressure sores
Prevent → Until the plaster or fiberglass hardens, it should be handled using the
palm of the hand rather than the fingertips (fingertips may create pressure
sores).
