A 6-year-old patient who has been placed in skeletal traction has pain, edema, and fever.
The nurse should assess which of the following?

A change in status that should alert the nurse to increased intracranial pressure (ICP) in a child with a head injury is confusion and altered mental status. As intracranial pressure increases, it can affect brain function and lead to neurological changes, including confusion, disorientation, irritability, decreased level of consciousness, or other alterations in mental status. These changes indicate that the brain is being compressed and compromised, and immediate intervention is required.

Option B, increased diastolic pressure with narrowing pulse pressure in (option B) is incorrect because it, can be a sign of increased ICP, but it is not specific to head injuries and can be influenced by other factors such as pain, anxiety, or systemic conditions. It is important to consider the overall hemodynamic status of the child and assess for additional signs and symptoms of increased ICP.

irregular, rapid heart rate in (option C), can be a sign of increased ICP, but it is not specific to head injuries and can be influenced by other factors such as pain, anxiety, or other medical conditions. Assessment of heart rate should be considered along with other signs and symptoms of increased ICP.

rapid, shallow breathing, in (option D) can be a sign of increased ICP, but it is not specific to head injuries and can be influenced by other factors such as pain, anxiety, or respiratory conditions. Respiratory assessment should be considered along with other signs and symptoms of increased ICP.

When the skin surface is caked with desquamated skin and sebaceous secretions after the removal of a cast, the nurse should suggest washing the area with warm water and soap. This will help to gently cleanse the skin and remove the accumulated material without causing unnecessary trauma or irritation.

Option A, applying powder to absorb the material, may not effectively remove the caked material and could potentially lead to further clumping or discomfort.

Option B, vigorously scrubbing the leg, can be harsh on the skin and may cause skin irritation, redness, or even abrasions. It is important to be gentle and avoid excessive scrubbing, especially on the fragile and recently exposed skin.

Option C, carefully picking the material off the leg, can increase the risk of skin injury or introduce bacteria into the skin. Picking at the skin should be avoided to prevent further damage or infection.

Therefore, option D, washing the area with warm water and soap, is the most appropriate and gentle method to remove the caked material from the skin surface