What should the nurse include in the patient education about cast care?
Avoid moving the cast to relieve itching.
Use a hairdryer on a warm setting to dry the inside of the cast.
Stick objects under the cast to scratch the skin.
Remove the cast if it becomes loose.
The Correct Answer is A
It is essential for the patient to avoid moving the cast to relieve itching as this can lead to skin breakdown, discomfort, and improper healing. The nurse should instruct the patient to use cool air or apply ice packs on the outside of the cast to alleviate itching without disturbing the cast's positioning.
b. Using a hairdryer on a warm setting to dry the inside of the cast is not recommended. The heat can cause discomfort and may not effectively dry the interior of the cast, leading to skin irritation and potential infection.
c. Sticking objects under the cast to scratch the skin can damage the skin and introduce bacteria, increasing the risk of infection. The patient should be instructed not to insert any objects under the cast.
d. Removing the cast if it becomes loose is not within the patient's scope of practice. If the cast becomes loose or uncomfortable, the patient should seek immediate medical attention for evaluation and adjustment by a healthcare professional.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
: Educating the patient about signs of neurovascular compromise, such as changes in sensation, color, or temperature of the limb, is essential to ensure early detection of potential complications and timely intervention.
a. Encouraging the patient to bear full weight on the cast immediately is not recommended, as weight-bearing should follow the healthcare provider's instructions, which may involve partial weight-bearing initially.
b. Instructing the patient to elevate the casted limb above the heart can help reduce swelling but may not be the primary focus of discharge teaching for a newly applied cast.
c. Advising the patient to use a heating pad on the cast to relieve discomfort is not recommended, as excessive heat can damage the cast and increase the risk of skin irritation.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The type of fracture is essential in assessing the patient's readiness for weight-bearing. Some fractures require non-weight-bearing, partial weight-bearing, or full weight-bearing, depending on the bone's location, severity of the fracture, and treatment plan.
a. Age of the patient: The patient's age can influence fracture healing but is not the primary factor in determining weight-bearing status.
c. Pain level: Pain assessment is important for managing discomfort, but it is not the sole factor in determining weight-bearing status.
d. Patient's occupation: The patient's occupation may be considered in the treatment plan, but it is not the primary factor in determining weight-bearing status after a fracture.
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