How to take a shower while in cast

Author: Louise Ward
Date Of Creation: 10 February 2021
Update Date: 1 July 2024
Anonim
How to Shower with a Cast or Splint
Video: How to Shower with a Cast or Splint

Content

When you have a broken leg or arm, you may be confused about how to clean your body. Bathing can be difficult when you have to cast the cast, but this is not without a solution. In the event of a broken limb, you will need to keep the powder dry while bathing. Be careful when entering and leaving the tub. If you accidentally get the powder wet, you should call your doctor for instructions on how to handle it.

Steps

Method 1 of 4: Keep the cast dry

  1. Buy powder wet-proof wrap. This is probably the easiest way to prevent dough from getting wet. You can ask your doctor or pharmacist about powder wetting. Many companies sell products that are designed to prevent water from getting into the powder.
    • Powder wet-proof wrap are usually long tubes made of waterproof material. You will wrap this product over the cast. This product is available in different sizes for different types of cast. The main advantage of this product is that they are much more durable than other items, so they are also difficult to tear.
    • Some powder wet coatings come with a pump to draw the air out, forming a seal around the powder to increase the level of protection.

  2. Use plastic bags. If you don't have a powder wet-proof wrap, you can improvise with something readily available in the house. Plastic zippered bags can also be used to cover the top of the powder to prevent water from seeping.
    • Newspaper bags, bread bags, or small trash bags can also help. You will wrap these bags over the cast and seal the top with elastic or tape. The elastic is usually gentler on the skin, and you can also reuse the bag after bathing.
    • Be sure to check the plastic bag to make sure there are no holes before wrapping the powder.

  3. Try using plastic wrap. If you wrap it tightly enough, plastic wrap is also a good barrier to wetting. Wrap the film around the entire cast, remember not to leave any gaps to reveal the dough. Keep the food wrap in place with cloth tape or rubber bands.
    • Remember that plastic wrap may be less effective than other methods. Although plastic wrap is relatively cheap, if you wrap it tightly, the dough might leak.

  4. Wrap a washcloth or towel near the top of the cast. Regardless of the method you use, this is an important step. A washcloth or towel wrapped near the top of the cast will help prevent water from getting under the dough. Water can lead to skin infections when it gets under the powder. advertisement

Method 2 of 4: Find alternatives

  1. Avoid getting the dough sticky with water. No matter how carefully you wrap, the water runs the risk of seeping through the coating into the cast. You should try not to get the water on the dough.
    • Try taking a bath instead of a shower. If you break your arm, it will be easier to reach out your hand to avoid the water in the tub. Simply rest your hands on the edge of the tub while bathing the rest of your body.
    • If you just love to shower, try to get your hands out to avoid the running water. You may have to leave your broken limb out of the shower while bathing.
    • However, even if you keep the cast away from the water, you shouldn't take a shower without wrapping. Powder can be damaged even with a small amount of water.
  2. Try wiping instead of showering. Aside from the danger of getting the powder wet, you will have a hard time managing an injury. This is especially difficult if you have a broken leg. If possible, wipe yourself off instead of showering.
    • If your child has a cast on it, you can wipe him or her off until he or she gets used to the cast.
    • If you are an adult, you can wipe yourself near the sink. If someone close to you can help, try asking them to help you clean.
  3. Ask your doctor if waterproof powder is right for you. Waterproof powders are generally safe even when immersed in water. If you feel you are in danger of getting the powder wet, ask your doctor about waterproof powders.
    • There are many types of waterproof cast materials. You should ask your doctor about which materials are right for you. Some types may be more effective than others, so your doctor can explain to you which is beneficial for you.
    • Remember that waterproof powders are not 100% waterproof. Although this powder can withstand water better than most others, you should still be careful when taking a bath, shower or swimming. Try to avoid getting the dough wet.
    • Waterproof powder may not be suitable in cases of fractures that require movement to recover.
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Method 3 of 4: Shower with leg cast

  1. Choose a chair to place under the shower. You will need to sit in the shower if you have a cast on your leg. Many people think that garden chairs are suitable, but you should consult your doctor first. Seek advice from a health professional about a chair that can be placed in a standing bathroom at home.
    • Make sure the seat is sturdy. You could injure further if the chair slips in the bathroom.
    • You may need non-slip mats in your bathroom.
    • Ask someone who doesn't break your leg to test the strength of the chair before you step in the shower.
  2. Lower yourself and step in the shower. If you have crutches or a walking stick, use it to walk to the shower. Turn your back to the shower and sit in the chair.
    • You can use anything for handrails. Try propping against the wall of the shower room or shower bar if it is secure. Don't forget that the shower rod is actually not drilled into the wall, so make sure to test it before you hold it.
    • Gently sit on the chair and lift your legs away from the flowing water. Turn to face the shower handle.
  3. Use a hand shower to shower. With the handheld shower, you will have much more control while sitting in the shower. You can direct the spray to the areas of the body that need to be washed and avoid the cast.
    • If you don't have a handheld showerhead, try a stationary shower with a wet towel. However, take extra care not to splash the cast. Always cover the powder before showering.
  4. Wipe down while sitting. Remember to keep a towel within reach before you start bathing. You should dry yourself while sitting. You don't want your hands and feet slippery when you try to get out of the bathroom.
  5. Step out of the shower. Gently face the shower door, put on a cane, crutches or other objects to gently get up and out of the bathroom.
    • If you have a wheelchair, gently get back into the wheelchair after you get out of the shower.
  6. Talk to your doctor before taking a shower with your feet in cast. While this method may be safe, you still need to consult your doctor before trying it. Only your doctor knows your current condition to evaluate if this is safe for you. If your doctor recommends against sitting in a chair under the shower, they may advise you on a safe bath while in the cast. advertisement

Method 4 of 4: Treat when the dough gets wet

  1. Dry the dough when wet. If the cast gets wet, you need to quickly dry the cast. This reduces the damage to the powder and avoids the risk of infection.
    • Use a hair dryer to dry the powder.Always use cool mode. Hot or warm temperatures can cause burns.
    • You can also try using a vacuum cleaner if you don't have a hairdryer.
  2. Call your doctor right after getting wet. Wet dough may need to be replaced. If you accidentally get the cast wet, you should call your doctor and make an appointment as soon as possible. Water can seep underneath the powder and cause infection in the skin underneath.
  3. Be careful even when cast with fiberglass material. The fiberglass has a better water resistance, and if it gets wet on the surface, it is usually easy to dry. However, water can still get under the powder and pose the risk of infection. Even if you have a fiberglass cast, call your doctor when it gets wet. advertisement

Advice

  • Attach the showerhead to the water hose if you don't have one. Showering will make it easier to take a shower with the cast, especially the cast on your feet.