1-18
1-18. FINISHING THE DRY CAST
Cast edges may have been trimmed and finished with a smooth edge at the time of application or edges may be finished after the cast is dry.
a. When a cast is lined with stockinette, it may be pulled out from within the cast and folded back over the edges of the cast and taped in place. See figure 1-12.
b. Adhesive tape or moleskin may be used to cover rough edges of the cast by applying overlapping pieces in a "petal" fashion. See figure 1-12.
Figure 1-12. Finishing a cast.
c. Nursing implications. A cast without a smooth, unwrinkled finish is a potential source of problems.
(1) Rough, unfinished cast edges will scrape or cut the skin. Broken skin surfaces may become infected.
(2) Loose bits of plaster from an unfinished cast may become lodged inside the cast, causing itching and irritation.
(3) Wrinkled or "bunched-up" edging may result in pressure areas and potential skin breakdown.
