A nurse is caring for a child following an open reduction and internal fixation of a fractured femur and application of a cast. The cast has a window cut in it for viewing of the incision. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

a. Turn the client so the cast will dry on all sides: While ensuring the cast is dry is important, the first priority following a surgical procedure is to assess neurovascular status to detect any

complications.

b. Remove the window and view the incision: Removing the window may compromise the cast's integrity, and the priority is to assess neurovascular status before inspecting the incision.

c. Medicate the client for pain: Pain management is important, but assessing neurovascular status is the initial priority to ensure there are no complications affecting circulation.

d. Perform neurovascular checks of the affected extremity: Neurovascular checks are the priority to detect any signs of impaired circulation or nerve function.

a. Provide humidified oxygen: Humidification helps prevent the drying of mucous membranes, making secretions more manageable and less tenacious. This is an acceptable method to thin

secretions in a client with a tracheostomy.

b. Prelubricate the suction catheter tip with sterile saline when suctioning the airway: While lubrication with sterile saline is a common practice during suctioning to reduce trauma to the airway, it does not directly address the tenacity of secretions.

c. Perform chest physiotherapy prior to suctioning: Chest physiotherapy is a technique used to mobilize respiratory secretions, but it may not directly address the tenacity of secretions.

d. Hyperventilate the client with 100% oxygen before suctioning the airway: Hyperventilation with 100% oxygen is not a routine practice and may lead to respiratory alkalosis. Providing

humidified oxygen is a more appropriate approach.