Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nurses Society (WOCN) Practice Exam

What is a common patient concern regarding the use of total contact casting?

1. Requires frequent adjustments

2. Time-consuming application

3. Very lightweight

4. Offers maximum comfort

The correct answer is: Time-consuming application

The concern that total contact casting is often time-consuming to apply stems from the need for careful fitting and molding to ensure proper contact and distribution of weight across the foot and lower leg. This process is critical for achieving the therapeutic benefits of the cast, which include offloading pressure from ulcerated or injured areas. The intricate nature of casting means that healthcare providers must invest a significant amount of time and skill to ensure that the cast is applied correctly for optimal healing. In contrast, patients may not typically express significant concerns regarding the weight of the cast or its comfort level, as total contact casts are designed to provide stability while minimizing excessive pressure in specific areas. While adjustments may be necessary during the healing process, they are generally less frequent than the initial application and do not pose as prevalent a concern as the time involved in the casting procedure itself.