Before applying a cast, what is first placed to protect the skin?

Before applying a cast, it is essential to protect the skin from irritation, abrasion, and moisture that can occur once the cast is in place. Webril, also known as cotton padding, serves as a soft, absorbent layer that cushions the skin and provides a buffer between the skin and the cast material. It helps to evenly distribute pressure and minimize the risk of skin problems that may arise from direct contact with the cast.

This cushioning material is particularly beneficial because it is not only gentle on the skin but also allows for some level of moisture absorption, which is important for overall skin health during the duration when the cast is worn. Additionally, Webril provides a barrier that helps reduce skin irritation caused by the rigid materials of the cast itself.

In contrast, the other options such as gauze, a sterile dressing, or plastic wrap do not provide the combination of softness, cushioning, and moisture management that Webril offers. Gauze may not be as effective in providing adequate cushioning, a sterile dressing is usually used for wound management rather than for protection beneath a cast, and plastic wrap is generally not used because it does not allow the skin to breathe and could trap moisture against the skin, increasing the risk of skin complications.