© Queen's University Technical Skills Program

It is important to remember that removing a cast can be a frightening experience for patients - children and adults alike. A clear explanation of how the cast saw works - that they may feel heat but that it is unlikely to cut their skin, will help improve the patient’s comfort. It should also be explained that there is a greater risk of skin injury if the cast being cut is wet, if too much pressure is applied, if the patient’s skin is relatively fragile (babies and the elderly), or if the cast has a gortex lining.

Both the person removing the cast and the patient should wear ear protection, as the cast saw is loud. Someone who removes casts frequently may also wish to wear a mask to decrease the risk of respiratory complications from the dust of the casts.