Orthopedic Center
Caring for your cast
Once your child has been fitted with a cast there are important guidelines to follow. Our cast technicians will go over these instructions with your and your child.
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Keep the cast clean and dry.
The best way to keep a cast dry when bathing is to put two bags over the cast. Place a bag on the cast, then apply a towel around the top of the cast with tape, followed by the second bag. This does not waterproof the cast, but will help to protect from splashing. If the cast does get splashed on, you can use a hairdryer on cool or low to dry it. If the cast gets very wet you will need to have the cast changed within 24 hours.
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Check for cracks or breaks in the cast.
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Rough edges can be padded to protect the skin from scratches.
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Do not scratch the skin under the cast by inserting objects or fingers inside the cast.
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Prevent small toys or objects from being put inside the cast.
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Avoid sand, dirt or mulch. Loose particles may work their way into the cast.
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You can use a hair dryer placed on a cool setting to blow air under the cast and cool down hot, itchy skin. Never blow warm or hot air into the cast.
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Do not put powders or lotions inside the cast.
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Cover the cast while your child is eating to prevent food spills and crumbs from entering the cast.
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Elevate the cast above heart level to decrease swelling.
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Encourage your child to move their fingers or toes to promote circulation.
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Do not use the abduction bar on the cast to lift or carry the child.
Older children with body casts may need to use a bedpan or urinal in order to go to the bathroom. Tips to keep body casts clean and dry and prevent skin irritation around the genital area include:
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Use a diaper or sanitary napkin around the genital area to prevent leakage or splashing of urine.
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Place toilet paper inside the bedpan to prevent urine from splashing onto the cast or bed.
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Keep the genital area as clean and dry as possible to prevent skin irritation.
What should I do if my child has gotten his cast wet?
If your child’s cast has gotten wet, please contact us immediately at 617-355-6021. Wet casts can lead to complications and need immediate attention. A nurse will decide if your child needs to be seen that day, or the next. In most cases your child will need to be seen that day. If this occurs after normal business hours please contact the orthopedic physician on-call through the page operator at 617-355-6000. Your child may need to be seen in the Emergency Department to have the cast changed.
Please note the above information does not apply to waterproof casts.
When to call your child's doctor
Contact your child's doctor or health care provider if your child develops one or more of the following symptoms
- Fever greater than 101 degrees Fahrenheit
- Increased pain
- Increased swelling above or below the cast
- Complaints of numbness or tingling
- Drainage or foul odor from the cast
- Cool or cold fingers or toes
More information
