A nurse is caring for a client following application of a cast. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?
Place an ice pack over the cast.
Position the casted extremity on a pillow.
Teach the client to keep the cast clean and dry.
Palpate the pulse distal to the cast.
The Correct Answer is D
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.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. First trimester bleeding. Abruptio placentae typically occurs in the third trimester, not the first. First trimester bleeding is more commonly associated with miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy.
B. Severe abdominal pain. Abruptio placentae involves the premature separation of the placenta from the uterine wall, often leading to sudden, severe abdominal pain and possibly vaginal bleeding. It is a medical emergency requiring immediate attention.
C. Nausea. While nausea can occur during pregnancy, it is not a hallmark symptom of abruptio placentae and does not assist in differentiating it from other complications.
D. Delayed menses. Delayed menses may indicate early pregnancy, but it is not related to abruptio placentae, which occurs later in pregnancy.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Explain long term consequences of the procedure to the child. This level of detail is not developmentally appropriate for a school-age child. It may increase anxiety without helping the child understand or cope with the immediate situation.
B. Remove the dressings while explaining the procedure to the child. While it is important to explain procedures, it should be done before starting to allow time for questions and emotional preparation. Explaining during may cause confusion or distraction.
C. Keep equipment out of the child's sight. Hiding equipment can actually increase fear and mistrust. School-age children benefit from open, age-appropriate communication and preparation about what to expect.
D. Allow the child to help remove the dressings. This is the most appropriate action. Allowing the child to participate in their care provides a sense of control, reduces anxiety, and helps build trust. It also aligns with the developmental need of school-age children to take on increasing responsibility and be involved in decision-making.
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