A client has had a cast for a week and returns to the orthopedic clinic complaining of an increased level of pain. The most appropriate action by the nurse is to
a. administer a stronger analgesic.
b. notify the physician immediately.
c. remove the cast and inspect the skin.
d. send the client for an x-ray.
C
If there is any question about the cause of pain under a cast, the cast should be removed and the underlying skin inspected. If the nurse is not capable of or allowed to remove the cast, the best action would be to inform the physician.
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