Wednesday, January 4, 2017

How to of the Day

How to of the Day


How to Get a Job That You Want

Posted: 04 Jan 2017 04:00 PM PST

In this economy, more and more people are settling for jobs they dislike, or flat out despise. The secret is that you do not have to, regardless of your qualifications. Everybody deserves to have a job that fits their lifestyle and one they enjoy doing.

EditSteps

EditFinding a Job That Fits Your Interests

  1. Think about what you are good at. Usually the things we love are the things we are good at. Research the fields and options that best deal with those interests so you can spend your time at work doing things that you enjoy. To begin, you can start off by simply researching job titles online.
    Be Calm Step 21.jpg
    • Consider your current hobbies and how you can apply them to a job.
    • Think about your past work experience and the things you liked and didn't like about them.
  2. Talk to people who work in a variety of jobs. This will give you a better sense of what certain jobs entail. Many communities offer job fairs that can be found on your local city website. These are great opportunities to ask questions. You can ask friends or family members about their experiences too.[1]
    Make a Sale Step 14.jpg
    • Ask about the hours they work, the highlights of their job, and what they find to be most challenging.
    • Get opinions on the jobs you're considering and feedback about your plans to get there.
  3. Spend time job shadowing. Job shadowing is a career evaluation activity that allows you the chance to spend time with a professional currently working in a particular career field. You can see what it's really like working in a certain job.[2]
    Think Like a Graphic Designer Step 7.jpg
    • Check with the local college to see if they offer a formal job shadowing program through their Career Services Office. Career counselors can also be a huge help in assisting you to find potential job shadowing opportunities.
    • Government agencies also offer job shadowing programs for students who are interested.
  4. Take a career personality test. There are many free tests on the web that will psychoanalyze your mind to help narrow down interesting jobs for you. These tests are designed to provide you with specific jobs that fit your unique interests and ultimately help you down a career path. You may even see jobs you didn't know existed be recommended to you.[3]
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    • You can find the test at http://www.careertest.net/cgi-bin/q.pl.
    • The test has 68 questions and takes approximately 10 minutes to complete.
    • Your responses should reflect who you really are and not the way you want to be, think you should be, or are asked to be by someone else.
    • You will be provided with some helpful links to help you research the jobs that are suggested to you.
    • Remember, there are no right or wrong answers or personality types.
  5. More about the test. Your results will help you discover deeper traits about yourself like if you are more of a logical or emotional thinker, or whether you enjoy working around a crowd or by yourself. Consider your ideal work environment. If you are extroverted and like being around people, you may want to think about jobs that allow you to meet new people and converse with them. If you are more of an introvert, you may want to think about jobs that involve more solitaire work. The career personality test will tell you which side you fall on.
    Write a Letter of Intent Step 7 Version 6.jpg
    • Extroverts may enjoy fields such as teaching, sales, hotel management, restaurant work, or jobs in medicine.
    • Introverts may enjoy more secluded jobs such as office work, accounting, writing and editing.
  6. Think about the lifestyle that is important to you. If you see yourself having a more lavish lifestyle, or one filled with travel, you may want to seek out a higher paying job. Look at the salary and wage averages for the jobs you are considering to decide if they will provide you the type of lifestyle you are looking for. Salary averages for jobs in specific areas can be found at http://www.payscale.com/research/US/Country=United_States/Salary.[4]
    Retire Rich Step 1 Version 2.jpg
    • Also, consider if you want a family and will be raising kids. Some jobs require more than 40 hours of work per week and this is something to consider with a family.

EditSearching for Jobs

  1. Stay focused. Do not get discouraged finding a job. Seek out support from others in your hunt. They can either offer you practical advice or just listen when you need someone to listen. Remember that finding a job takes time and the best thing you can do is stay patient and dedicated.
    Become a Software Engineer Step 8 Version 2.jpg
  2. Create a great resume. Your resume needs to be professional and polished, and should list your qualifications. If you don't have this, your application materials probably won't get a second glance from any hiring director. Use resume formats on microsoft word that help guide you through creating a resume. There are also sources online that can help give you guidance.[5]
    Get a Job in Another State Step 10.jpg
    • One great place for help can be found at http://rockportinstitute.com/resumes/. This site will help you build a strong and unique resume.
    • Your resume should include appropriate experiences that relate to the job you are applying for.
  3. Put together a portfolio. A work portfolio is a great way to keep all of your stuff in one place and show off any work you have done. A portfolio is also excellent for lulls in an interview or for giving interviewers concrete answers to their questions. For example, if you're asked about experiences you have in your profession, you can pull out a report or give statistics about what you've done.[6]
    Apply for an Entrepreneurial Grant Step 15.jpg
    • If you're a teacher, you can include your mission statement, letters of recommendation, student work, and a sample lesson plan. Photographers putting together some of their best photos or other work is another great use for a portfolio.
  4. Get your resume out there. There are now more ways than ever to search for and apply to jobs. You can search on Craigslist.com, Monster.com, check your local newspaper, go directly to company websites, or apply in person. Whichever method you choose, just make sure you are always looking and always applying.
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    • For each company you apply with, you need to send a cover letter that is catered to each job. Your cover letter should include a little bit about yourself and why you are applying to that job. You can find help with your cover letter at http://jobsearch.about.com/od/coverletters/a/aa030401a.htm.
  5. Utilize networking and build great relationships. Many jobs that people receive are done through networking and communicating with people they meet and already know. By building positive relationships with past employers, coworkers, and friends, it can help you find work more easily in the future. Employers love using connections that current employees bring to them.
    Apply for Scholarships Step 11.jpg
    • Talk to people you know and let them know what you are looking for.
    • Don't be afraid to ask for help. It never hurts to ask people for favors, just make sure you show your gratitude and be professional.
  6. Create a LinkedIn profile. Meet up with like-minded people and become friends with them online through job finding sites. The most successful job searches and career explorations are based on networking, and LinkedIn is a major outlet. Creating a profile is free and will help you discover professional opportunities, business deals, and new ventures.[7]
    Apply for a PhD in the US Step 3 Version 2.jpg
  7. Keep your current job until you find another one. Because finding a new job can take some time, you shouldn't quit your current job until you are offered a new job that you want to take. Once you are ready to leave your current job, be sure to give a two weeks notice so you can keep a good relationship with that employer.
    Find a Job in Dubai Step 5 Version 2.jpg
    • Leaving a job on a good note will allow you to use that employer as a future reference on your resume.
  8. Be realistic. You may not be qualified for the job of your dreams, yet. You need to do your homework and find out the qualifications and steps needed to get where you want to be. You can't start out as CEO, but you can start taking steps to get there.
    Answer Interview Questions Step 15.jpg
    • Find out if your job needs schooling or college degrees.
    • Take jobs that can lead you into the job you want. Sometimes all it takes is getting your foot in the door and then you can work your way up.
    • Seek out a job that is in the field you are working towards. For example, if you want to be a nurse, try working as a receptionist in a doctor's office while you are earning your nursing degree to help you get a feel for the environment and pace.

EditHaving a Successful Interview

  1. Practice for your interview. Practice any specific skills necessary for your desired job, but more importantly, practice how you interact with potential interviewers. You can practice by yourself or with others. Consider attending mock interviews hosted by colleges or career centers. They will provide you with great feedback on the impression that you give off to potential employers.[8]
    Convince Your Boss to Let You Work from Home Step 5 Version 2.jpg
    • When rehearsing potential interview answers, actually say your answers out loud in front of someone. This will help you prepare.
    • Your resume should be in 12 point font and free of grammatical and mechanical errors. [9]
  2. Dress professionally. What you wear to an interview creates an image or perception of the type of person you are, so choosing your attire is very important when presenting yourself as the right person to hire.
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    • Research the company to determine appropriate interview outfits.
    • Whenever you find yourself doubtful about what to wear, lean towards slightly over dressing, rather than show up looking too casual.
    • If you don't have an appropriate outfit you can go to a department store like Nordstrom or Macy's and ask one of the sales associates for help.
  3. Research the companies you interview with. Find out the history, mission statement, founder, or anything you can about the company. You may be asked related questions during your interview and you want to come across as prepared and interested in the company.
    Have a Good Job Interview Step 1 Version 3.jpg
    • You most likely will be asked why you want a job with the company you are interviewing for. Make sure you are ready with a good answer.
  4. Take all interviews. Interview with any company that will meet with you for their open positions. Learn from anyone in the industry that you can. Interviews can be good resources for information and networking, whether or not they lead you to a job or not.
    Prepare for a Job Interview Step 10.jpg
    • Take interviews even for jobs you may not want because the practice will help you become better at the process.
  5. Show your appreciation after your interview. The day after your interview, send a thank you to the person you interviewed with. This will help leave a positive lasting impression with them. You can send a thank you card in the mail or an email. Just be sure to thank them for their time and let them know how eager you are to hear back from them.
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  6. Reflect as you go. If you are wondering why you didn't get a job for which you applied or interviewed, make a list of pros and cons to see what didn't go well. Work on your weakest links and stay focused on improving your performance. Interviewing for a job can have a lot of competition so it is important that you are always learning from your experiences and staying prepared.
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    • Review your resume and make sure that it is free of errors.
    • Share your interview experiences with friends or family and get their advice on how well they think you answered questions. This will help you brainstorm for the next interview you have.

EditVideo

EditTips

  • Learn how to listen closely during your interview. It is easy to be overcome with nerves and distracted with your own insecurities, but try to take a breath and stay focused.
  • Don't be afraid to be vulnerable and remember that it is okay to ask others for help.

EditWarnings

  • You may not get the job you were hoping for but that doesn't mean you should be gloomy over it. Get proactive and stay focused on your path, instead.

EditRelated wikiHows

EditSources and Citations


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How to Meal Plan

Posted: 04 Jan 2017 08:00 AM PST

Meal planning saves money, time and makes eating healthy easier. With a well-thought out meal plan, you can make accurate grocery lists and waste less food, as you'll know exactly what you're using each ingredient for instead of just buying things and figuring out their use later.

EditSteps

EditDetermining Your Meal Needs

  1. Count out how many meals, and what type of meal, you need to plan for. A good way to do this is to simply look back on the last week of meals. What days did you go out to eat? What days did you have left-overs? What days did you have plenty of time to make a great, huge meal? It is a generally a good idea to plan your meals for no longer than a week in advance, since plans can change and food might go bad. Jot down all the meals you ate last week and see how many meals, and what type, you need to plan for:
    Meal Plan Step 1 Version 3.jpg
    • Breakfast: Do you make a unique breakfast sometimes, or do you generally eat the same thing each morning?
    • Lunch: Do you eat out while at work, or do you pack lunches?
    • Dinner: What days do you cook? What days do you eat out or eat leftovers?
    • Snacks: How quickly do you go through snack foods? Do you need these foods, or do you just eat them because you were around.[1]
  2. Draft up a basic calendar of the week with slots for every meal. Get a pen and paper and sketch out each day, putting three slots under each for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. You can even print out and use the template found at the bottom of the article, or get a free food planning app online.[2]
    Meal Plan Step 2 Version 3.jpg
  3. Make a "master list" of your favorite recipes and meals. Collect your favorite recipes online and out of cookbooks, helping you quickly fill in your schedule with new meals. If you don't collect recipes or don't know where to begin, head online and search for recipes with some of your favorite ingredients, your schedule (ie. "1-hour dinners"), or simply peruse food blogs or websites. A quick internet search for "best recipes" will pull up far more food than you could ever conceivably try.
    Meal Plan Step 3 Version 3.jpg
    • Sites and apps like FoodGawker let you search recipes by style, time, ingredients (including ingredients you want to avoid) and popularity.
    • Remember to look up sides too, like salads or vegetable dishes, and not just the main course.[3]
  4. Fill in simple or easily customized meals, like breakfast, first. In general, most people eat 2-3 things every day for breakfast and lunch, and don't often use recipes to determine cereal and milk choices. Note these meals on your calendar, then make a simple list of the various ingredients you might mix and match -- granola, cereal, fruit, yogurt, cold cuts, etc. There is no need to plan out exactly what you're getting now ("12 slices of turkey") before going to the store. Just write out ("12 slices of cold cuts"), then see what looks good at the store.
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  5. Understand the basics of a well-balanced meal. Planning dinners may look daunting, as they are usually made up of 2-3 separate parts. However, the basics of a well-balanced meal are actually pretty simple. You want a main dish, usually a grain (pasta, rice, couscous, etc.), a protein like chicken, beans, or fish, and at least 1-2 vegetables or fruits.
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    • Think of each dinner as three separate parts -- a grain, a vegetable, and a protein. Pick three simple recipes instead of trying to make one all inclusive dish each night.
  6. Combine all of your recipes into your week's grocery list. Once you have all of your recipes compiled, simply mix and match the recipes together to create a shopping list. You know you'll use everything you buy since it all has a purpose in your week. You may add loose snacks here and there, but, in general, you should cut down on the time and money spent in the store considerably with proper planning.[4]
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    • Be sure to check your fridge and pantry before going to see what ingredients you already have.
    • Some people find planning all meals daunting at first. If so, just start with dinners, then buy the rest of your groceries like normal.[5]
  7. Be flexible every now and then. No one can plan for everything, and that's fine. Sometimes you may want some spontaneity, and some days you'll get home and just won't feel like cooking. A meal plan is there to make life easier, not bind you to some sort of eating contract.
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    • Try having a "cook's choice" night, which you leave open to figure out later that day. This is often a good choice for your shopping day, as you can easily buy the right ingredients for that night's meal on the fly.
    • While meal plans are a good way to limit costly eating out, you should still free to head out every once and a while.[6]

EditMaking Effective Meal Plans

  1. Find recipes that use similar ingredients to save money and time. Once you get the hang of meal planning, you'll realize it is a fantastic tool to spend your time and money more effectively. For example, find multiple recipes for the Brussels sprouts used on Monday and then buy them in bulk instead of buying a smaller, and more expensive, amount of sprouts. Choose recipes like stir-fries or fried rice that are easily customized at the end of the week, allowing you to throw in all your leftover onions, peppers, and other vegetables.
    Meal Plan Step 8 Version 2.jpg
    • For example, you might do a chicken salad one night and chicken tacos the next. You can cook all the chicken the first night, then reheat it in taco sauce or seasoning the next.[7]
  2. Engage your family when planning meals. There is no reason you have to do this all by yourself. Moreover, getting the whole family to send in recipes ensures that everyone gets to eat something they want. This is also a great way to help kids expand their palettes and make sure that they eat each night.
    Meal Plan Step 9 Version 2.jpg
  3. Choose healthy options now to eat healthy throughout the week. When meal planning healthy recipes, you ensure that you eat healthy food. If you only plan healthy meals, you can can avoid a last-minute box of Mac and Cheese on days you're unsure what to eat. Planning around your schedule takes the stress off of you later in the week to find something healthy each night.[8]
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  4. Buy produce that is in season or on sale to save money and eat fresher foods. Determining what is in season, and how to use it, is difficult at the store, but you can easily plan for seasonal fruits and vegetables at home and pick 2-3 recipes that make use of them. Check out what is on sale online when meal planning, then plan your recipes accordingly.[9]
    Meal Plan Step 11 Version 2.jpg
  5. Make a "theme night" once a week, such as Taco Tuesdays or Pasta Wednesdays. This takes a whole day off of your calendar, making planning that much easier. It also lets you perfect that one option every week. When you're at the store, you can easily start mixing and matching the recipes depending on what is on sale, since you know generally what you'll need for Hot Salad Saturdays.[10]
    Meal Plan Step 12 Version 2.jpg
  6. Check the weather to determine what nights you might want hot or cold foods. It is no secret that our food preferences change depending on the weather. So, if there is a cold rainy night coming up, prepare for grilled cheese and soups. If a heat wave is coming, look for meals that don't require tons of time over a hot oven or stove, like fresh salads or sandwiches.[11]
    Meal Plan Step 13 Version 2.jpg
  7. Save your receipts and keep notes on your meal planning, adjusting accordingly. The first few weeks will be a little odd as you get used to your new system and make changes. Keep all of your receipts to track how much money you're spending, and write down what you think of each recipe. As you keep planning, you'll be able to adjust your schedule depending on changing finances, recipes you love, and currently available produce.[12]
Meal Plan Step 14 Version 2.jpg

EditMeal Plan Template

EditTips

  • Shopping: stick to the list and avoid grabbing those impulse buys. Only shop after you have eaten and are satisfied. Planning for two weeks and shopping every two weeks will save on gas.
  • Use fresh food and minimize the use of prepackaged or processed food to maximize your grocery dollar and minimize intake of salt and simple sugars.
  • Use your weekly grocery store ads & national coupons to identify sale items and plan your meals around what is on sale.
  • Only buy in bulk when you know you will use it all before it expires or if you can put it away in storage (freeze, dry, etc) so it won't expire or go to waste.
  • Cooking: all your ingredients are at home, so no more running to the store for last minute items. Choose recipes with short prep times and require minimal attention during cooking.
  • If this seems like a lot of effort, try a meal planning service. The one cited below is only one of many. Look for one that meets your needs and eating style. Most services cost less than $1.25 per week.

EditRelated wikiHows

EditSources and Citations


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How to Cope With a Broken Wrist

Posted: 04 Jan 2017 12:00 AM PST

A broken wrist actually can include the distal radius and/or ulna as well as several other bones in the wrist (the carpal bones). It is a fairly common injury.[1] In fact, the radius is the most commonly broken bone in the arm. 1 in 10 broken bones in the United States is a broken distal radius.[2] A broken wrist can happen when you fall or get hit by something. People at particularly high risk for broken wrists include athletes who play high-impact sports and people with osteoporosis (thin, fragile bones). If you've been treated for a broken wrist, you will probably have to wear a splint or cast until your wrist heals. Read on to learn some ways to cope with a broken wrist.

EditSteps

EditSeeking Treatment

  1. Go to the doctor. A broken wrist requires medical attention so it can heal properly. If you aren't experiencing a lot of pain, you can wait until you're able to see your regular physician.[3] If you have any of the following symptoms, you should seek emergency medical attention:[4]
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    • Significant pain or swelling
    • Numbness in the wrist, hand, or fingers
    • A deformed appearance of the wrist, looking crooked or bent
    • An open fracture (where the broken bone has pierced through the skin)
    • Pale fingers
  2. Understand the treatment procedures. Most broken wrists are treated first with a splint, which is a rigid piece of plastic, fiberglass or metal attached to the wrist with bandages or a brace.[5] This is usually used for a week, until the swelling reduces.[6]
    Cope With a Broken Wrist Step 2 Version 2.jpg
    • After the initial swelling has gone down, a plaster or fiberglass cast is usually placed after a few days or a week.[7]
    • You may need a second cast after 2-3 weeks, if the swelling goes down further and the first cast becomes too loose.[8][9]
  3. Wait 6 to 8 weeks. Most broken wrists heal within 6-8 weeks with proper treatment. This means you will probably have a cast for most of that time.[10]
    Cope With a Broken Wrist Step 3 Version 2.jpg
    • Your doctor will usually conduct regular x-rays through this period to make sure your wrist is healing correctly.
  4. See a physical therapist. After your cast comes off, you may be referred to a physical therapist. Physical therapy can help you regain the strength and motion that you lost after your injury.[11]
    Cope With a Broken Wrist Step 4 Version 2.jpg
    • If you don't need formal physical therapy, your doctor will probably give you exercises to do at home. Make sure you follow your doctor's recommendations to help your wrist return to its full functioning.

EditEasing Pain and Swelling

  1. Elevate the wrist. Elevating your wrist above the level of your heart will help reduce swelling and pain. It's important to elevate your wrist for at least the first 48-72 hours after having a cast put on. Your doctor may recommend that you elevate it longer.[12]
    Cope With a Broken Wrist Step 5 Version 2.jpg
    • You may also need to keep the wrist elevated while you sleep or during the day. Try propping it up on a few pillows.
  2. Apply ice to your wrist. Icing your wrist can help reduce swelling and ease your pain. Make sure to keep your cast dry while applying ice.[13]
    Cope With a Broken Wrist Step 6 Version 2.jpg
    • Put ice in a zip-top plastic bag. Make sure the bag is sealed properly to avoid leaks. Wrap the bag in a towel to make sure condensation doesn't get into your cast.
    • You can also use a bag of frozen vegetables as an ice pack. Look for veggies that are small and even in size, such as corn or peas. (And obviously, don't eat them after you've used the bag as an ice-pack.)[14]
    • Hold the ice on your wrist for 15-20 minutes every 2-3 hours. Apply ice for the first 2-3 days, or as long as your doctor recommends.[15]
    • You may also find it helpful to use a commercial gel-based ice pack. These are reusable, freezable ice packs that won't melt and leak water onto a cast. You can find them at medical supply stores and most pharmacies.[16]
  3. Take an over-the-counter painkiller. Most wrist pain can be treated with a non-prescription pain reliever.[17] You should talk with your doctor about what type of painkiller is appropriate for you. Some can interfere with medical conditions or other medications you're taking. Your doctor may recommend a combination of ibuprofen and acetaminophen/paracetamol to fight pain and reduce swelling. These are more effective together than either one is alone.[18]
    Cope With a Broken Wrist Step 7 Version 2.jpg
    • Ibuprofen is an NSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug). These help reduce fever and swelling by inhibiting your body's production of prostaglandins. Other NSAIDs include naproxen sodium and aspirin, although aspirin has a more prolonged anti-clotting effect than other NSAIDs.[19]
    • Your doctor may not recommend aspirin if you have a bleeding disorder, asthma, anemia, or other medical condition. Aspirin can cause negative interactions with several medical conditions and medications.[20]
    • When administering pain relievers to a child, be sure to use a children's formula and follow the dosage for the child's age and weight.[21] Aspirin is not recommended for children under age 18.
    • There is a risk of liver damage when taking acetaminophen, so use only as much as recommended by your doctor.[22]
    • Do not take an OTC painkiller for more than 10 days (5 days in children) unless directed by your doctor. If your pain persists after 10 days, see your doctor.[23]
  4. Wiggle your fingers and move your elbow around. It's important to exercise any joints that aren't under the cast, such as your elbow and fingers, to keep circulation flowing.[24] This will help speed your healing process and increase mobility.[25]
    Cope With a Broken Wrist Step 8 Version 2.jpg
    • If you experience pain when moving your elbow or fingers, contact your doctor.
  5. Avoid sticking objects into the cast. You may find that your skin gets itchy under the cast, and you'll probably want to scratch it. Don't! This can cause harm to your skin or the cast. Don't poke or stick anything into the cast.[26]
    Cope With a Broken Wrist Step 9.jpg
    • Try raising your cast or blowing on it with a hairdryer on the "low" or "cool" setting instead.[27]
    • Don't put powders into the cast, either. Anti-itch powders can cause irritation when they're trapped under the cast.[28]
  6. Apply moleskin to prevent rubbing. Your cast may rub or irritate your skin where its edges meet your skin. You can apply moleskin, which is a soft fabric with an adhesive backing, directly to the skin where the cast is rubbing. You can purchase moleskin at drug stores and pharmacies.[29]
    Cope With a Broken Wrist Step 10.jpg
    • Apply moleskin to clean, dry skin. Replace it when it gets dirty or loses its stickiness.
    • If the edges of your cast become rough, you can use a nail file to smooth out the rough edges. Don't peel, cut, or break off pieces of your cast.
  7. Know when to call your doctor. In most cases, your wrist will heal in a few weeks with proper care. You should call your doctor if you experience any of the following:[30]
    Cope With a Broken Wrist Step 11.jpg
    • Numbness or tingling in your hand or fingers
    • Cold, pale or blue fingers
    • Increased pain or swelling of the area after the cast has been put on
    • Raw or irritated skin around the edges of the cast
    • Cracks or soft spots in the cast
    • Wet, loose, or tight casts
    • Casts that smell bad or itching that won't go away

EditManaging Daily Tasks

  1. Avoid getting your cast wet. Because many casts are made of plaster, they are easily damaged by water. Getting the cast wet can also encourage mold or mildew growth inside the cast. Wet casts may also cause sores to form on your skin under the cast. Do not get the cast wet.[31]
    Cope With a Broken Wrist Step 12.jpg
    • Tape a heavy-duty plastic bag (such as a garbage bag) over your cast when you bathe or shower. Hold your cast outside the shower or bathtub so you reduce the likelihood of getting it wet.
    • Wrap a washcloth or small towel around the top of your cast to keep water from leaking in under the cast.
    • You may be able to purchase water-resistant cast shields from your doctor's office or a medical supply store.
  2. Dry your cast immediately if it gets wet. If your cast does get wet, pat it dry with a bath towel. Then, use a hair dryer on the "low" or "cool" setting for 15-30 minutes.[32]
    Cope With a Broken Wrist Step 13.jpg
    • If the cast is still wet or soft after you've tried to dry it, call your doctor. You may need a new cast.
  3. Wear a sock on your hand. If your fingers get cold while you're in your cast, you may be having circulation problems. (Or it could just be cold in your house.) Elevate your wrist and wear a sock on your hand to keep your fingers cozy.[33]
    Cope With a Broken Wrist Step 14.jpg
    • Wiggling your fingers can help restore circulation.
  4. Wear clothes that are easy to put on. Putting on clothes with fasteners such as buttons or zippers may be difficult while you're in a cast. Wearing fitted clothing or clothes with tight sleeves isn't usually a good idea, as these may not fit over a cast.
    Cope With a Broken Wrist Step 15.jpg
    • Choose loose, stretchy clothing. Elastic-waisted pants or skirts mean you don't have to fumble with fasteners.
    • Shirts with short sleeves or sleeveless shirts are a good idea.
    • Use your good arm to put the shirt sleeve over the cast and pull gently. Try to minimize how much you use the arm in the cast.
    • Use a shawl or blanket to stay warm instead of a jacket, which could be harder to get into. A thick poncho or cape can be an easier choice rather than an outdoor coat.
    • Don't be embarrassed to ask for help when you need it.
  5. Ask for a note-taker in class. If you're a student and you've broken the wrist of your dominant hand, you may need to ask for a note-taker or other accommodations while your wrist heals. Speak with your teacher or your university's disability resources center.
    Cope With a Broken Wrist Step 16.jpg
    • If you can learn to write with your non-dominant hand, this will help, but this can be difficult and takes a long time.
    • If you've broken the wrist of your non-dominant hand, use a heavy object like a book or paperweight to hold paper in place while you're writing. Use your injured arm as little as possible.
  6. Do tasks with your other hand. When you can, use your non-injured arm to do daily tasks such as brushing your teeth and eating. This will help reduce inflammation in your injured wrist.
    Cope With a Broken Wrist Step 17.jpg
    • Don't lift or carry things with your injured wrist. This could cause re-injury and prolong the healing process.
  7. Avoid driving or operating machinery. This is particularly important if you have broken the wrist of your dominant hand. It is unsafe to drive in a cast and your doctor will likely tell you not to drive.[34][35]
    Cope With a Broken Wrist Step 18.jpg
    • Although it is not illegal to drive with a wrist cast, use sound judgement when deciding whether to drive or not.[36]
    • Other machinery – particularly machinery that requires two hands to operate – should be avoided.

EditHealing after a Break

  1. Take care of your arm and wrist after the cast is removed. You will notice dryness and perhaps some swelling after the cast is removed.
    Cope With a Broken Wrist Step 19.jpg
    • Your skin may also look dry or flaky. Your muscles may look smaller than when you put the cast on, which is normal.[37]
    • Soak your arm/wrist in warm water for 5-10 minutes. Gently dry the skin with a towel.[38]
    • Use a moisturizing cream on the wrist and arm to soften the skin.
    • To reduce swelling, take ibuprofen or aspirin as recommended by your doctor.
  2. Take up normal activities as recommended by your doctor or physical therapist. It can take some time before you're able to return to your full routine. In particular, you may need to wait 1-2 months to resume light exercise, such as swimming or cardio. Vigorous activities such as sports may require waiting 3-6 months.[39]
    Cope With a Broken Wrist Step 20.jpg
    • Take care to prevent further injuries to your wrist. Braces can help prevent future wrist injuries.
  3. Remember that healing takes time. Just because your cast is off does not mean you are completely healed. It may take six months or longer to heal if the break was severe.[40]
    Cope With a Broken Wrist Step 21.jpg
    • You may continue to have aches or stiffness for months or years after the initial break.[41][42]
    • Your healing process is also affected by your age and overall health. Children and teens tend to heal faster than adults. Older adults and people with osteoporosis or osteoarthritis may not experience healing as fast or as fully.[43]

EditTips

  • Try to keep the arm elevated above the heart in moments of severe pain. This helps blood and fluid to return to the heart, relieving the pain and swelling a little.
  • Try to keep your wrist supported when you sleep. Lie on your back with a pillow under your wrist.
  • If you need to fly while in a cast, check with your airline. You may not be able to fly within 24-48 hours of having a cast put on.[44]
  • Writing on casts is okay. Use permanent markers to avoid ink stains on your clothes or sheets.[45]
  • If you have problems getting lids of bottles and jars stick them between your thighs/knees/feet and use your good hand to unscrew.

EditWarnings

  • Seek medical attention for a broken wrist. Not receiving proper treatment can cause serious side effects.

EditRelated wikiHows

EditSources and Citations


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