Level 7 day case plaster cast advice: The Alex

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Plaster casts: problems to look out for

• Increased pain that is not relieved by pain killers such as, paracetamol and ibuprofen
• Numbness or tingling in the hand or foot or under the cast
• Burning or stinging sensation
• Swelling in the hand or foot below the cast or splint
• The skin or nail colour below the cast turns blue or purple or, if the fingers or toes go white
• If your child is unable to move their fingers or toes below the cast or splint
• If you notice a smell coming from the cast, especially if there’s a wound underneath
• If the cast becomes soft or cracked

Symptoms that require your immediate attention

• An increase in pain in the calf area of the lower leg
• If you notice your child’s arm or leg is swollen and warm, red and or inflamed when the cast or splint has been removed

Follow up information

Fracture clinics are held on Tuesdays & Fridays in the Out Patients Department on level 5.

If you have not received your appointment, please telephone the booking hub on 0300 303 8360, let them know an appointment has been requested by Level 7 Day Case.

Pain relief

It is important to give your child regular, simple pain medicine such as paracetamol and ibuprofen during the first 48 to 72 hours.

Elevating the limb above heart level will also help to relieve pain during first 48 to 72 hours. Ice packs or compresses for 10 to 15 minutes at a time can be helpful too (a bag of frozen peas wrapped in a tea towel will help keep your plaster dry).

If you need to contact Level 7 Day Case

Should you have any concerns or experience problems once you are at home, then please telephone RACH on 01273 696955 and ask for level 7 Day Case:

In hours:

• 07:30 or 19:30, Monday to Friday, at extension 2382

Out of hours:

• Please speak to nursing staff on level 8, at extension 2552