Clinical Reference Systems: Pediatric Advisor 10.0

Description

A splint is a padded piece of plaster that holds part of an injured arm or leg in the best position for healing. The splint is secured in place by an elastic bandage. The purpose of a splint is to prevent movement and protect a fracture, possible fracture, or torn ligament until the swelling has gone down. When the swelling is gone, an orthopedist can apply a full plaster cast if needed.

Home Care

1. Ice. Apply a cold pack or crushed ice in a plastic bag to the injured area for 20 minutes of each hour for the next 4 hours.

2. Elevation. If the leg is injured, elevate the leg on pillows and at rest for the next 24 hours. This will limit the amount of swelling that occurs. If the arm is injured, your child should wear the sling provided by your physician to keep the injured part elevated and limit swelling. Occasional wiggling of the fingers or toes will also prevent some swelling.

3. Pain Relief. Give acetaminophen or ibuprofen in the appropriate dosage for pain. Continue this for at least the first 48 hours.

4. Splint Care. Don't get the splint wet. If it becomes wet, dry it with a hair dryer. Don't walk on or put any pressure on the splint because it isn't designed to handle weight. Don't stick anything down into the splint, such as a coat hanger or other device, to scratch an itch.

5. Signs of a Tight Splint. If the elastic bandage is too tight, it can decrease circulation to the fingers or toes. If any of the following problems occur, loosen the elastic bandage:
   • Your child feels numbness, tingling, or increased pain.
   • The fingers or toes turn to a different color (pale or bluish) than the color of the fingers and toes of the noninjured arm or leg.
   • The fingers and toes become swollen.

6. Follow-up Appointment. Most children who have a splint need to be reexamined in 24 to 48 hours. Your next appointment is _______________________.

7. Call Your Child's Physician Immediately If:
   • The fingers, toes, or other problems are not back to normal within a half-hour of loosening the elastic bandage.