Upper Limb Prosthetics
Putting on the prosthesis
- Put a clean, dry prosthetic sock on your child’s arm.
- Slide your child’s arm into the socket or use the sock to pull your child’s arm into the socket.
- Tuck the extra sock into the socket.
- Fasten the humeral cuff around your child’s upper arm.
- Bend the elbow to make sure the prosthesis is on properly.
- Apply shoulder harness and ensure that it is snug.
Daily cleaning of the prosthesis
- Each day, dampen a washcloth with rubbing alcohol, and clean the socket and humeral cuff.
- Do not submerge the prosthesis under water. Moisture can become trapped in the foam. This causes germs to grow and the prosthesis to smell.
- Dry the prosthesis immediately if it gets really wet.
- The harness can be removed from the prosthesis for cleaning. Hand wash with mild soap and water. Rinse well and lay flat to dry.
- Pens and permanent ink may stain prosthetic hand or mitt. If marked, clean immediately with rubbing alcohol to reduce staining.
Daily cleaning of your child’s arm
- Each day, clean your child’s arm with soap and water.
- Inspect the skin each day, looking for red marks that do not fade within
- 30 minutes after removing the prosthesis.
- Sores or calluses should not develop.
Wearing schedule
- New prostheses should be worn for one hour. Remove the prosthesis to inspect skin for irritation. Increase wearing time as tolerated by your child.
- Once the break-in period is over, your child should be comfortable in their prosthesis all day.
- Your child may choose to wear the prosthesis just for specific tasks.
When should I call the Prosthetics department?
- Call with any prosthetic-related problems. This includes adjustments needed for your child’s growth, repairs, and skin or fitting issues.
- To schedule follow-up and return appointments, please call 206-987-8448. All patients need scheduled appointments.
To Learn More
- Orthotics and Prosthetics
206-987-8448 - Ask your child’s healthcare provider
- seattlechildrens.org/patient-education
Free Interpreter Services
- In the hospital, ask your nurse.
- From outside the hospital, call the toll-free Family Interpreting Line, 1-866-583-1527. Tell the interpreter the name or extension you need.
