The nursing instructor is talking with her class about cast care when one of the students asks what the nurse should do if a patient sticks something inside a cast to scratch whatever itched
What action would the instructor tell the students it would be appropriate for the nurse to take?
A) Allow the patient to continue to scratch inside the cast with a pencil.
B) Give the patient a sterile metal object to use for scratching instead of the pencil.
C) Encourage the patient to avoid scratching, and obtain an order for diphenhydramine (Benadryl) if severe itching persists.
D) Obtain an order for a sedative, such as diazepam (Valium), to prevent the patient from scratching.
Ans: C
Feedback: Most patients can be discouraged from scratching if given a mild antihistamine, such as diphenhydramine, to relieve itching. Patients shouldn't scratch inside casts because of the risk of skin breakdown and potential damage to the cast. Sedatives aren't usually indicated for itching.
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