A nurse is preparing a client for surgery. Which of the following is a priority when completing an assessment preoperatively?

Choice A reason:
Determining the client's understanding of the procedure is important as it ensures informed consent and can help alleviate anxiety. However, while this is a necessary part of preoperative care, it may not be the immediate priority¹.

Choice B reason:
Establishing the need for psychological support is a valuable aspect of holistic care. It addresses the client's emotional well-being and can improve overall satisfaction with the surgical experience. Nonetheless, it is not the primary focus of the preoperative assessment².

Choice C reason:
Identifying possible surgical risks is the priority in a preoperative assessment. This includes evaluating the client's medical history, current health status, and any factors that could increase the risk of complications during or after surgery. A thorough risk assessment is crucial for planning safe surgical care and for making decisions about proceeding with the surgery¹³.

Choice D reason:
Recognizing resources needed postoperatively is part of discharge planning and is essential for ensuring continuity of care. While it is an important consideration, it is not the immediate priority during the preoperative assessment².

Choice A reason:
It is important to keep a Plaster of Paris cast dry because moisture can weaken the cast and irritate the skin underneath. Therefore, the cast should be covered while showering to prevent it from getting wet.

Choice B reason:
Applying ice to the foot after walking can help reduce swelling and provide pain relief. It is a common recommendation for managing discomfort associated with a walking cast. The ice should be applied over the cast at the level of the injury for 15-30 minutes, repeating every few hours for the first few days.

Choice C reason:
While a musty odor can develop over time due to sweat and lack of air circulation, it is not necessarily normal and could indicate a problem such as an infection. If there is a persistent unpleasant odor, it should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.

Choice D reason:
Numbness or pain in the toes can be a sign of compromised circulation or nerve compression and should be reported immediately. It is crucial to monitor for any changes in sensation or increased pain, as these could indicate a serious issue that requires medical attention.