Placing a Splint On The Thumb and Index Finger: Splints on the thumb & index finger have particular challenges. While the other three digits are fairly simple to keep a splint in place, due to the fact that they are not as versatile in a range of motion, they are not used like your thumb and index finger. I have had a splint on my index finger and thumb. I can tell you that securing the splint is extremely important. With each of the splints that I had, there was a problem with the splint moving. While this movement caused a wound, it also caused the splinted digit to move, even though the splint was placed to prevent movement.
Splints On The Thumb & Index Finger: Securing a splint on these digits requires extra attention. While I have found that wrapping the bottom of the splint; in a self-sticking wrap is essential, pay special attention to the direction of the wrap. When wrapping the index finger; the splint wants to travel towards the thumb. Therefore, you need to pull the splint towards the palm. This is most easily done; when the wrap comes from under the splint on the thumb side. Next, it is started over the finger on the lateral aspect. Thus allowing the finger and splint to remain in neutral alignment.
Splints on the Thumb & Index Finger: Now we are faced with the opposable thumb. While this presents twice the problem, however, the solution requires a double direction. In short, the solution is quite simple. When covering the bottom end of the splint; it does not matter which side the wrap emerges on the splint. Then I will cut the wrap so there are about 6 inches from the splint. Next, cut or tear the wrap almost to the splint. Most importantly, cross the halves on the front side of the splint. (If done on the underside, a sore may appear.) Now take each half in a different direction under the splint; to the exit side of the thumb. (The side of the wrap comes out from under the splint.) Once the side-to-side motion is secured, the splinting continues, as with any other digit.
One of the reasons we all became nurses was our desire to help people. As such, those of us who are not active. Remain wanting to assist others. While my method has been to teach, not as an instructor in a classroom, while going to the many physicians’ offices that I frequent, certainly, my forte has been imparting my personal knowledge from a patient’s perspective. Consequently, as things arise, I will put them here to share with all of you.
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