The nurse instructs a patient going home with a short arm synthetic cast to: (Select all that apply.)
a. cover the cast with a plastic bag when taking a shower.
b. blow warm air into the cast to relieve itching.
c. observe skin at the edge of the cast for irritation or injury.
d. check circulation and sensation in the fin-gers frequently.
e. move and flex the fingers to stimulate circulation.
A, C, D, E
All options listed are important teaching points for cast care except blowing warm air into the cast. If itching occurs, cool air will be most helpful.
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The nurse is caring for a patient with depression. Which statement by the patient indicates a need for further education?
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A client with acute mania is a business executive. He tells the nurse that his job is only his cover,
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The son of an older patient is concerned about the patient's ongoing forgetfulness and asks the nurse to explain what could be wrong with the patient. How should the nurse respond to the son?
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