A client has sustained a right tibial fracture and has just had a cast applied. Which instruction should nurse Melissa provide in his cast care?
a. Cover the cast with a blanket until the cast dries
b. Keep your right leg elevated above heart level
c. Use a knitting needle to scratch itches inside the cast
d. A foul smell from the cast is normal
Answer B.
The leg should be elevated to promote venous return and prevent edema. The cast shouldn’t be covered while drying because this will cause heat buildup and prevent air circulation. No foreign object should be inserted inside the cast because of the risk of cutting the skin and causing an infection. A foul smell from a cast is never normal and may indicate an infection.
a. Cover the cast with a blanket until the cast dries
b. Keep your right leg elevated above heart level
c. Use a knitting needle to scratch itches inside the cast
d. A foul smell from the cast is normal
Answer B.
The leg should be elevated to promote venous return and prevent edema. The cast shouldn’t be covered while drying because this will cause heat buildup and prevent air circulation. No foreign object should be inserted inside the cast because of the risk of cutting the skin and causing an infection. A foul smell from a cast is never normal and may indicate an infection.
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Psychosocial Integrity