TEACHING TYPES OF ARM SLING AND

APPLICATION
BY DR SHALINI S.
1 Introduce yourself and your role – Hello I’m Dr Shalini ED registrar
2 Ascertain the role of the student – Can I get your name and competency
3 Ascertain the level of understanding of the student about the procedure - what have you
know so far about arm slings? Just feel to tell, I am here to help you understand all about
arm sling today.
4 Outline objectives: Indications, components, interpreting/procedure, applying the
knowledge at bedside – So we are going to outline our objectives for today which will the
types of arms sling, indication for each, application of each type of arm sling and perhaps
later you can do by yourself later, is that okay with you?
5 Obtain consent from patient for procedure AND for allowing the student to observe you
while you perform – Sorry Mr Smith I’m Dr Shalini and this is Dr Jujis my colleague who will
be learning about arm slings, is that okay with you Mr Smith?

6 Wash hand - you, and your student

7 Offer analgesia for the patient’s arm

8 Explanation of types of arms slings – There is 3 types of arm sling which are collar and
cuff, broad arm sling, high arm sling. Are you following me Dr Jujis?

9. Explanation of indication of each arm slings – So Dr Jujis, these arm slings have different
indications.

i. COLLAR & CUFF

a) Fractures of humerus including head / neck fractures to allow gravity from
the weight of the arm to dis-impact the fracture
b) Radial head fractures of the elbow
ii. BROAD ARM SLING
a) First aid – Acts as support, splint and provides elevation to prevent swelling
for arm injuries and lacer
 b) To support an arm in a cast and to provide elevation to same
c) Temporary elevation
iii. HIGH ARM SLING
a) First aid – High elevation for severely swollen extremities (all causes),  and
active bleeding
b) Temporary high elevation e.g. patient requires strict elevation for a short
period  
c) Infection to hand / arm
d) Wounds that are at risk of further bleeding (to prevent ‐ haematomas)

So far Dr Jujis are you okay and you have any question for me?

10 Explanation of application of arm slings - I am going to explain how to apply each arm
sling, is that okay with Dr Jujis. Do not be afraid to interrupt me in the middle
i. COLLAR & CUFF
a) Put padded area around around back of neck
b) Tie a secure knot above and below the cast
c) Check that the sling is snug around the cast, so it does not slide.
d) The arm should be shaped like an “L” or at a 90-degree angle.
e) The hand should not be lower than the elbow - this will help prevent
swelling in the hand and fingers.
ii. BROAD ARM SLING
a) Place arm across body in slightly elevated position
b) Lay sling UNDER the arm as per triangular bandage rules.
c) Bring over the arm and around the neck.
d) Tie around the neck, ensuring position of the arm, and secure around the
elbow  
iii. HIGH ARM SLING
a) Place arm with fingertips touching opposite shoulder
b) Lay the sling OVER the arm, as per triangular bandage rules
c) Tuck under the elbow and bring the remaining fabric across the back
d) Tie across the back
e) Apply safety pin to the elbow to secure
Any question for me Dr Jujis

Always check for the neurovascularcse

11 Allow the student to practice hands on and verbally go over the process
12 Correct them if required
13 Be non-judgmental and do not shower them with questions
14 Positive reinforcement and Appreciation
15 Recap
15 Ask concerns/questions
16 Schedule a Follow Up
17 Offer materials to go over.