The nurse continues to care for the client.

Exhibits

For each assessment finding, click to specify if the finding is consistent with psychosis or mania. Each finding may support more than one diagnosis.

A. Place an ice pack over the cast. While this can help reduce swelling and pain, it is a comfort measure, not the priority. Safety assessments must be completed first before implementing non-urgent interventions.
B. Position the casted extremity on a pillow. Elevation is important to reduce swelling, but it follows after ensuring that circulation to the extremity is intact and that there are no signs of vascular compromise.
C. Teach the client to keep the cast clean and dry. Education is essential for long-term cast care, but it is not the first action after cast application. Immediate post-procedural monitoring takes precedence.
D. Palpate the pulse distal to the cast. The nurse should first assess for adequate circulation by checking distal pulses. This helps identify early signs of complications like compartment syndrome or impaired blood flow, making it the highest priority.

A. Occupational therapist. An occupational therapist is the appropriate specialist to assess and assist with fine motor skills and daily living activities, such as eating. They can provide adaptive equipment and training to help the client maintain independence and improve quality of life.
B. Physical therapist. A physical therapist focuses primarily on gross motor skills, mobility, and physical strength, not fine motor control necessary for holding utensils. They are more involved in rehabilitation related to ambulation and transfers.
C. Dietitian. A dietitian helps develop nutritionally appropriate meal plans based on medical conditions and dietary needs. However, they do not address the client’s ability to physically manage eating tools or self-feed.
D. Social worker. A social worker provides support with emotional, financial, and community resources, but does not assist with the physical or mechanical aspects of daily tasks like feeding. They may coordinate care but not deliver direct therapy for motor challenges.