Claúdio Ferreira Nurse Coordinator LUZ 24 The placement of a plaster cast is common when treating fractures ('broken bones'), mainly for those of limbs, and for immobilization after orthopedic surgery in certain situations. Plaster casts are rigid external immobilization devices that involve a region of the body in order to keep it in an appropriate position. Various materials are included in the composition of a plaster cast, including the plaster itself. Powdered plaster forms a paste when mixed with water. This paste is used to mold the plaster cast and give it rigidity after it dries. The main objectives of the plaster cast are: Immobilize the affected area in a correct position during the fracture resolution and healing. The plaster cast provides support and protects tissue, both fractured bones and surrounding soft tissues; Relieve local pain and swelling . The first 24 hours After being applied, the plaster does not dry right away. It will be hard when touched in 10 to 15 minutes, but complete drying takes about 24 hours , and can even take up to 48 hours. Until the plaster dries completely, it can feel cold and damp. Until it is completely dry and rigid, it is important not to place the plaster cast on hard or sharp surfaces as they can deform it, and this can affect the intended bone alignment. Plaster cast care The plaster casts are usually used for a few weeks and care is essential so that the healing is successful and there are no problems with the skin. For that: Keep the outside of the plaster clean and do not let dirt get inside ; Do not put anything inside the cast to try to relieve any itching you may have; Do not pull or cut the gauze or cotton that are part of the device and that play an important role in protecting the skin; Plaster casts must not be wet under any circumstances. If it comes into contact with water, the plaster becomes soft and weakens; Cover the plaster cast with cling film and a plastic bag during cleaning operations. Secure and close the plastic with adhesive or a rubber band. Also, for safety reasons, it is best to keep the region with the plaster out of the bath or shower. Dress and undress While using a plaster cast it can be difficult to wear your usual clothing. Prefer comfortable and loose pieces to facilitate dressing and undressing operations. Dress the arm or leg that has the cast on first; Undress the arm or leg that does not have a cast first; If necessary, unsew some garments at the seams to be able to wear them (unseaming at the seams, instead of cutting, allows you to easily restore the initial state of the clothing). Ensure correct fracture healing Keep the limb with the plaster cast elevated whenever possible , for example: The legs, using pads; The arms keeping them to the chest using a scarf around the neck or a specific brachial support. Move your fingers to reduce pain, facilitate circulation and reduce edema formation; Do not load the region with plaster; Do not drive , do not practice physical activity that implies additional force on the limb that has the cast. And always follow the instructions given to you by the doctor. Seek medical care If you have a plaster cast, pay attention to the following warning signs, in the face of which you should seek medical advice : Very intense pain or pain that worsens in the region under the cast; Perception of having wounds or cuts in the skin under the cast; Fingers of the limb that has the cast very swollen (edema), or alteration of its normal color (bluish or gray), cold, numb or inability to move them; Tingling or numbness of the limb that has the cast; Plaster cast with an unpleasant smell, cracked or broken or too tight. If you need to, call LUZ 24 – 217 104 424 . Use the QR Code and save the LUZ 24 contact on your mobile phone. We are available 24/365 to help you. Free service available for adults and children. The content published in the Health Guide is intended for the general public and is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not replace individual medical assessment, diagnosis, or personalized clinical advice from a qualified healthcare professional. The content is produced or reviewed by physicians and other healthcare professionals at Hospital da Luz and is based on the knowledge available at the time of publication or the most recent update, as indicated at the beginning of each item.
