A nurse is planning care for a school-age child who has autism spectrum disorder. Which of the following actions should the nurse include in the plan?

A. Apply plastic covering to the cast until dry. Covering the cast with plastic can cause moisture accumulation, which can delay drying and increase the risk of infection and skin irritation. The cast should be allowed to dry naturally and in a well-ventilated area.

B. Apply pieces of moleskin around the edges of the cast. Applying moleskin around the edges of the cast helps to protect the skin from irritation and potential injury from the rough edges of the cast. This is an appropriate intervention.

C. Use tips of fingers to reposition the cast until dry. Using the tips of fingers to handle the cast while it is drying can create indentations, leading to pressure points and potential skin breakdown. The cast should be handled with the palms of the hands to avoid indentations.

D. Maintain casted extremity below heart level. The casted extremity should be elevated above heart level, especially in the first 24-48 hours, to reduce swelling and promote venous return. Keeping it below heart level can increase swelling.

A. Inform the client to contact the pharmacy regarding any questions related to the medication. While pharmacists can provide additional information, the nurse should ensure the adolescent understands the medication instructions and has immediate answers to any questions during the teaching session.

B. Provide instructions to the client's parent with the client present. Adolescents may be more comfortable discussing sensitive topics such as STIs privately. The primary teaching should be directed to the adolescent to respect their autonomy and privacy.

C. Instruct the client's parents to write down the information that is being provided. This is not appropriate for an adolescent who is capable of understanding their own medical information. The focus should be on ensuring the adolescent comprehends the information.

D. Ask how the client prefers to learn new information. Correct. Asking the adolescent how they prefer to learn new information helps tailor the education to their learning style, making it more effective and respectful of their preferences.