© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.
A long arm splint is a medical device used to immobilize and support the arm from the shoulder to the hand. This type of splint is particularly beneficial for stabilizing injuries, as it decreases movement and provides essential support to the posterior aspect of the extremity. The application process begins with the use of a stockinette, which is a tubular fabric that is placed over the arm, extending from the axilla (armpit) to the wrist. This stockinette serves as a protective layer for the skin. Following the stockinette, padding is applied to enhance comfort and prevent pressure sores. The arm is positioned with the elbow flexed at an angle between 45 to 90 degrees, which is crucial for ensuring proper alignment and support during the healing process. To create the splint, plaster sheets are cut to the appropriate length and then immersed in water to become saturated. After soaking, excess water is gently squeezed out to ensure the plaster is not overly wet, which could affect its setting time and effectiveness. The plaster is then carefully applied to the posterior aspect of the arm, where it is smoothed and molded to fit the contours of the limb. Once the plaster is in place, an elastic bandage is wrapped around the arm to secure the splint firmly. Finally, the arm is placed in a sling to provide additional support and to keep the arm immobilized, facilitating the healing of the injury.
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