Casting for Emergency Medicine Providers: Below Knee Backslab

Objectives:
1. Understand the indications for a below-knee backslab.
2. Identify common injuries requiring temporary immobilization.
3. Distinguish between injuries needing backslabs vs. full casts.
4. Pinpoint key anatomical landmarks.
5. Experience characteristics of different casting materials.
6. Correctly position the leg.
7. Apply slab with appropriate length, coverage, and molding.
8. Know how to avoid pressure points and ensure proper padding.
9. Provide clear instructions for elevation, mobility, and signs of complications.

Casting for Emergency Medicine Providers: Below Knee Backslab

Course Duration: 3 hours

I. Introduction (10–15 mins)

•  Welcome and Course Overview
•  Review of Class Objectives
•  Importance of proper backslab technique in acute injury management

II. Clinical Indications and Injury Assessment (20 mins)

Lecture

• Common injuries requiring backslabs (e.g., ankle fractures, Achilles tendon rupture, severe sprains)
• When to choose a backslab vs. full cast
• Goals of temporary immobilization

III. Anatomy and Positioning (20 mins)

Demonstration

• Key anatomical landmarks: malleoli, heel, tibial crest
• Importance of the ankle at 90° dorsiflexion
• How to achieve proper positioning
• Patient positioning for comfort and access

IV. Backslab Application Technique (30–40 mins)

Hands-On Practice

• Applying padding with attention to pressure areas
• Cutting and wetting the slab
• Molding techniques
• Avoiding common pitfalls: pressure points, short slabs, poor molding

V. Aftercare and Patient Instructions (15 mins)

Discussion

• Instructions on leg elevation, mobility aids (e.g., crutches)
• Warning signs of complications (e.g., swelling, numbness, discoloration)

VI. Q&A and Review (10–15 mins)

• Recap key steps and safety tips

Click HERE for Agenda

Please contact Kim Anderson at Kim.Anderson@umanitoba.ca for any questions, cancellation and transfer requests.

The Department of Emergency Medicine reserves the right to cancel any course thirty (30) days prior to the course date.  Registrants will be notified by email.  A full refund will be issued for any cancelled course.  The Department of Emergency Medicine is not responsible for any costs, including but not limited to, airline or hotel fees or penalties.

Cancellation Policy
In accordance with CPD Medicine policy:
 More than 21 days’ notice: A refund will be issued, minus a 20% administrative fee (up to a
maximum of $200).
 Less than 21 days’ notice: No refund will be provided.
Special refund requests may be submitted to the event coordinator for consideration by the Scientific
Planning Committee Chair, CPD Director or the Managing Director.