The nurse caring for a client with a plaster cast applied several days ago notes crumbs of plaster on the skin just under the edge of the cast. Which action by the nurse is the most appropriate?

Question

1. Leaving the crumbs there to avoid injuring the skin
2. Using a surgical scrub brush to remove the crumbs
3. Using a dry cloth to remove the crumbs to avoid wetting the cast
4. Using a damp cloth to remove the crumbs and feel for rough edges

Answer 1

Correct Answer: 4

The crumbs should be removed using a damp, not wet, cloth, and the edge of the cast should be assessed for any rough areas that could cause tissue damage. Leaving the crumbs there could cause skin injury or could get under the cast and cause irritation. A surgical brush could scratch the client. Use of a dry cloth would not be effective.