Question

When instructing the caregiver of a child about cast care, the nurse anticipates the need for further teaching when the caregiver states:

a) I will use the tips of my fingers to scratch the skin under the cast.
b) If the cast gets wet, I will use a hairdryer on a cool setting to dry it.
c) I can elevate the casted limb on a soft pillow to reduce swelling.
d) I will notify the healthcare provider if the cast feels too tight.

Answer 1

The nurse would need further teaching for the caregiver who intends to use their fingers to scratch under the child's cast, as it is unsafe and can cause complications. It is important to use a hairdryer on a cool setting if the cast gets wet, keep the limb elevated to reduce swelling, and inform the healthcare provider if the cast feels too tight.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should anticipate the need for further teaching when the caregiver states:

a) I will use the tips of my fingers to scratch the skin under the cast.

Scratching the skin under the cast with fingers or any objects is not recommended as it can cause irritation, break the skin, or introduce infections. Instead, caregivers should be advised to use gentle tapping or blowing cool air into the cast to relieve itching if necessary. The other options mentioned (b, c, d) represent appropriate and recommended care for a child with a cast, such as using a hairdryer on a cool setting if the cast gets wet, elevating the casted limb to reduce swelling, and notifying the healthcare provider if the cast feels too tight, which are all part of proper cast care instructions.