The client has a cast extending from just below the left knee to the toes. Which clinical indicator is evidence supporting a desirable outcome statement that the nurse includes in the client's plan of care?

Question

1. Bilateral pink toes
2. Cast warm at ankle
3. Left foot paresthesias
4. Cast quite snug at knee

Answer 1

1
1. Bilateral pink toes indicate adequate oxygenation to the periphery and support the outcome "client has pink and warm toes bilaterally while wearing cast.". This also implies that the cast fits properly without areas of constriction.
2, 3, and 4. An area of warmth on a cast potentially indicates an infection.
3. Paresthesias indicate nerve compression or irritation; when this occurs with a cast in place on the affected extremity, it usually indicates swelling of the extremity, po-tentially leading to impaired perfusion. Paresthesias warrant further investigation to rule out compartment syndrome.
4. A tight cast potentially restricts blood flow and compresses nerves, leading to tis-sue damage and paresthesias.