A client with a fracture asks the nurse, "Why do I need to be cautious about blood clots?" How should the nurse respond to this question?

Choice A rationale:

Keeping the cast dry prevents itching and discomfort.

Rationale: While it's true that a wet cast can cause itching and discomfort, this response does not adequately address the importance of keeping the cast dry from a medical perspective.

It focuses on the patient's comfort rather than the potential complications associated with a wet cast.

Choice B rationale:

Moisture can weaken the cast and affect its ability to support the bone.

Rationale: This is the correct response.

Moisture can indeed weaken the cast material, causing it to lose its structural integrity and support for the fractured bone.

Choice C rationale:

Dry casts are easier to clean and maintain.

Rationale: While dry casts may be easier to clean and maintain, this response does not address the primary reason for keeping the cast dry, which is to maintain its strength and support for the bone.

Choice D rationale:

It's just a precaution; you can get the cast wet occasionally.

Rationale: This response is incorrect and could lead to the patient misunderstanding the importance of keeping the cast dry.

Getting the cast wet occasionally is not recommended, as it can weaken the cast and increase the risk of complications.

Choice A rationale:

Assessing the client's pain intensity is crucial when evaluating a client with a suspected fracture.

Pain assessment helps determine the severity of the injury, guides pain management interventions, and monitors the effectiveness of pain relief measures.

Assessing pain intensity is a standard practice in fracture evaluation.

Choice B rationale:

Monitoring pulses in the affected limb is an important clinical assessment when evaluating a client with a suspected fracture.

A decrease or absence of pulses in the affected limb can indicate vascular compromise or arterial injury, which is a critical complication of fractures.

This assessment helps in early detection of circulatory problems and guides immediate interventions.

Choice C rationale:

Checking for changes in skin color around the fracture is a valuable assessment because it can indicate compromised blood flow or nerve injury.

Pale or cyanotic skin may suggest poor circulation, while redness may be a sign of inflammation.

Monitoring skin color helps identify potential complications associated with the fracture.

Choice D rationale:

Asking about the client's dietary habits is not directly relevant to the evaluation of a suspected fracture.

While nutrition is important for overall health and healing, dietary habits do not provide immediate information about the client's current condition or the nature of the fracture.

Choice E rationale:

Evaluating the client's psychological state is important for holistic care but may not be a primary assessment when evaluating a suspected fracture.

The priority in this context is to assess physical signs and symptoms related to the fracture and any potential complications.