May be required for a fractured bone, weakness, paralysis, or spasticity

Also used after corrective orthopedic surgery

Possibly made of plaster or, more commonly, of synthetic material, such as fiberglass or plastic; also made of polyester and cotton impregnated with water-activated polyurethane resin

To help correct, maintain, and support the body part in a functional position

To allay their fears, explain each step of the procedure to the child and his parents before the cast is applied.

Cover the appropriate parts of the child’s bedding and gown with a linen-saver pad.

The skin that will be casted must be clean and dry.

Assess the condition of the child’s skin in the affected area, noting redness, contusions, or open wounds, to aid in evaluating complaints he may have after the cast is applied.

To establish baseline measurements, assess the child’s neurovascular status.

Palpate the distal pulses and assess the color, temperature, and capillary refill of the appropriate fingers or toes.

Inform the child and his parents that depending on which type of material is used, drying time for the cast may be as little as 7 minutes or as much as 72 hours.