A nurse is caring for a client who just had a left long-arm plaster cast applied after experiencing a musculoskeletal trauma. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Position the cast on a plastic-covered pillow.
Perform neurovascular checks every 2 hr.
Instruct the client to avoid moving the fingers on the left hand.
Touch the cast with the palms of the hands when moving the client.
The Correct Answer is B
A) Position the cast on a plastic-covered pillow:
Positioning the cast on a plastic-covered pillow is not recommended because the plastic can trap moisture and heat, potentially affecting the cast's integrity as it dries. Instead, a soft, absorbent material should be used to support the cast.
B) Perform neurovascular checks every 2 hr:
Frequent neurovascular checks are essential to monitor for complications such as compartment syndrome, nerve damage, or impaired circulation. This action helps ensure that any changes in sensation, movement, or circulation are identified and addressed promptly.
C) Instruct the client to avoid moving the fingers on the left hand:
Encouraging the client to move their fingers is important to prevent stiffness and swelling and to promote circulation. Instructing the client to avoid moving their fingers is not appropriate and could lead to complications.
D) Touch the cast with the palms of the hands when moving the client:
Handling a wet plaster cast with the palms of the hands is correct to prevent indentations and pressure points that could cause skin irritation or pressure sores. However, this action is not as critical as performing frequent neurovascular checks to ensure the client's safety and monitor for complications.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) "I will offer my child apple juice instead of milk.": Offering apple juice instead of milk is not ideal for a toddler with failure to thrive. Milk is a better source of essential nutrients like calcium and vitamin D, which are important for growth and development. Juice can contribute to empty calories and should be limited.
B) "I should continue to feed my child when he pushes food out with his tongue.": This statement indicates an understanding of the importance of addressing feeding difficulties. In toddlers with Down syndrome, it is common to experience difficulties with feeding and swallowing. Continuing to offer food and using techniques to encourage eating, even when the child initially pushes food out, can help ensure adequate nutritional intake and support growth.
C) "I will provide his favorite food as a reward for good behavior.": Using food as a reward can lead to unhealthy eating habits and an association of food with behavior rather than hunger and nutrition. It’s better to use non-food rewards to encourage positive behavior.
D) "I should increase my child's vitamin A intake by feeding him raw carrot slices.": While vitamin A is important, raw carrots can be difficult for toddlers, especially those with developmental delays or oral-motor difficulties, to chew and swallow. Cooked carrots or other vitamin A-rich foods might be a safer option.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A) Talking with the client's family to determine how the condition affects the client role:
Understanding the client's role within the family is important for comprehensive care, but it is not the most immediate priority in discharge planning. This information can be gathered once the client has the tools to manage their condition effectively.
B) Assessing the impact of the client's body image changes:
While body image is a significant concern for many clients with chronic conditions, it does not directly affect the immediate physical ability to manage daily activities and pain, which is crucial for someone with osteoarthritis.
C) Giving the client printed information about when to use hot and cold therapy:
Providing education on managing symptoms is essential, but simply giving printed information might not address the client's immediate need for practical assistance and adaptations necessary for self-care at home.
D) Consulting occupational therapy to provide assistive devices for self-care:
Ensuring the client has access to assistive devices through occupational therapy is the priority because it directly addresses their ability to perform activities of daily living independently and safely. This intervention can significantly improve the client’s quality of life and reduce the risk of complications.
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