Final answer:
Key instructions for caring for a short-arm plaster cast include elevating the wrist above the heart, keeping the cast dry, avoiding the use of heat, and not inserting objects under the cast to relieve itching.
Step-by-step explanation:
When providing home care instructions for a client with a short-arm plaster cast applied due to a wrist fracture, a nurse should include the following key points. Firstly, elevate the wrist above the heart to reduce swelling and promote healing. While at rest, the client should ensure the wrist is supported and elevated, which aids in decreasing inflammation and pain. It's also important that the client avoids getting the cast wet and refrains from inserting objects under the cast to alleviate itching, as this could damage the skin or the cast. In the case of severe itching, consulting healthcare providers for safe solutions is recommended. Furthermore, while a sling may be used in some cases, guidance from a healthcare provider is needed to confirm if it's appropriate for the client's specific condition. Finally, heat could potentially increase swelling and should generally be avoided unless specifically advised by a healthcare provider as part of a physical therapy plan.