A patient with a right tibial fracture is being discharged home after having a cast applied. The nurse gives instructions to the patient and his family. What instruction should the nurse provide in relationship to the patient's cast care?
A) Cover the cast with a blanket until the cast dries.
B) Keep your right leg elevated above heart level.
C) Use a knitting needle to scratch itches inside the cast.
D) A foul smell from the cast is normal.
Ans: B
Feedback: The leg should be elevated to promote venous return and prevent edema. The cast shouldn't be covered while drying because this will cause heat buildup and prevent air circulation. No foreign object should be inserted inside the cast because of the risk of cutting the skin and causing an infection. A foul smell from a cast is never normal and may indicate an infection.
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