Hi!
My organization is reviewing the tasks related to applying and removing casts (Fiberglass primarily) in pediatric and adult orthopedic clinics. We utilized Lippincott as a plumb line to determine scope, as well as other evidence-based practice literature. Lippincott currently states that application and removal, in general, are advanced practice skills. In reviewing past threads within the AAACN community, it looks as though some organizations allow competent and trained MAs, LPNs, RNs, and ATCs to apply casts with provider pre- and post-assessment. I am reaching out to see if there are any organizations currently examining the literature and digging into this task. The continuous assessment during cast application and removal gives me pause in allowing a medical assistant to perform this task. However, I know that there are ortho techs in other organizations that receive "on-the-job training and competency" to perform this task. Thanks so much!
------------------------------
Margaret Beckner, BSN, RN
Administrator, Nursing Projects
IU Health Medical Group, Indy Metro Region
Indianapolis, Indiana
317-709-1282
mbeckner@iuhealth.org------------------------------