Evaluation of Plaster of Paris Application Techniques Among Orthopaedic Nurses in Rivers State Public Hospitals

Plaster of Paris (POP) cast application is a foundational orthopaedic nursing skill used in the immobilisation of fractures and post-operative limb protection. Incorrect application can result in pressure sores, compartment syndrome, and malunion. This observational cross-sectional study evaluates the knowledge and practical competency of orthopaedic nurses in POP cast application across public hospitals in Rivers State, South South Nigeria. Forty nurses from four hospitals will be assessed using a structured competency observation checklist and a knowledge questionnaire. Competency domains assessed will include patient positioning, padding technique, casting material preparation, cast moulding, smoothing, and trim, neurovascular monitoring post-application, and patient education on cast care. Scores will be stratified by hospital category, training background, and years of experience. Logistic regression will identify predictors of technical competency. The study hypothesises that fewer than half of the nurses demonstrate all components of correct POP technique. Findings will be reported to the Rivers State Hospital Management Board and the Nursing and Midwifery Council to support the introduction of competency-based orthopaedic nursing assessments. This study contributes to improving fracture immobilisation quality standards in South South Nigeria, reducing the risk of preventable complications from suboptimal casting practices in busy hospital environments. Keywords: plaster of Paris, orthopaedic nursing, cast application, competency assessment, Rivers State.