New arm boards can be manipulated in multiple planes
- 1. This joint sometimes too loose or too tight- seek tech/biomed assist
- 2. The ball & socket joint requires adjustment to ensure lack of shoulder extension, ensuring shoulder flexion.
- In the supine pt, DO NOT leave the board flat, in the same plane as the table, as this is essentially shoulder extension for many
- 3. The lever is used to manipulate, to attain the required plane/position
- The resistance to change of position is sometimes too tight or too loose & only biomed should be engaged to fix this to specification
- Ask your tech to arrange alteration if too loose/tight.
- 4. Padding is thermally efficient foam
- extra blue gels are not required as blue gel padding is not thermally friendly (very cold)
- Consider some padding under the wrists to facilitate slight elbow flexion & to prevent elbow hyperextension
- 5. The straps may be a little short for larger arms
- 6. The bracket for attachment to the table is tricky & not all are easy to release.
- This is a result of non-standardised table rail & bracketing systems which have required an imperfect “work-around”
- This is a result of non-standardised table rail & bracketing systems which have required an imperfect “work-around”
- Please use the benefits of these new arm boards with the aim of reducing brachial plexus injury by reducing plexus stretch
- Adjuncts to maintain neutral head position to prevent over extension / lateral flexion etc of the neck, may also be required .