How to Make an Ortho Splint

Properly making an orthopedic splint is an important process that should be learned by all medical professionals. An orthopedic splint refers to a medical device that immobilizes a limb or the spine after a serious injury. Developing a faulty splint can lead to more severe injuries and can seriously hinder the rehabilitation process. While making an orthopedic splint may sound difficult, it is actually quite simple with the proper tools and directions.

Things You'll Need

• Plastic wrap
• Cast padding
• Stockinette
• Gloves
• Bucket
• Split rolls
• Elastic bandages
• Scissors
• Protective sheets

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Instructions

• 1

  Treat any skin lacerations on the victim prior to beginning the splint making process by cleaning and dressing the wounds according to their severity. Once wounds are dressed, place a stockinette around the entire affected area. Wrap the stockinette around the immobilized body part 2 to 3 times to provide added stability.

• 2

  Apply 2 to 3 layers of cast padding to the injured area so that the padding overlaps itself on at least 75 percent of the area. There should be extra layers of padding on areas where bones may be protruding to avoid the possibility of creating pressure sores in that area.

• 3

  Prepare the plastic splint materials depending on where the splint will be located. For example, if you are wrapping an upper extremity, you should use 8 to 12 layers of plaster. For lower extremities, 12 to 15 layers will be needed to adequately support the limb. Use your hands to mold the plaster according to the specific body part being immobilized. Fill a bucket with cool water and dip the plaster mold into the bucket. Cold water decreases the chances of thermal burns appearing on the victim while the splint is in place. The mold should remain submerged until the bubbling in the water ceases.

• 4

  Remove the splint from the water and squeeze out any excess water that may be saturating the splint. Smooth out the splint with your hands to remove any wrinkles or bubbles that may exist on the exterior layer. Place the splint around the injured extremity and wrap the ends of the stockinette and cast padding over it.

• 5

  Secure the splint in place by wrapping it with an elastic bandage. The splint will still be in the drying process and should be wrapped against the injured extremity until it dries so that it molds into the proper shape for the area. Once the splint has dried, check to make sure the wrapping is not cutting off blood circulation to the area. Tape along the edges of the elastic bandages to prevent it from falling out of place.