Question

Which nursing diagnosis would be a priority when preparing a plan of care for a child in a leg cast?

A) Impaired Physical Mobility
B) Risk for Impaired Skin Integrity
C) Acute Pain
D) Risk for Falls

Answer 1

When caring for a child in a leg cast, 'Risk for Impaired Skin Integrity' should be prioritized to prevent skin breakdown. Monitoring and skin care are crucial to avoiding complications.

Step-by-step explanation:

When preparing a plan of care for a child in a leg cast, the nursing diagnosis that would be a priority is B) Risk for Impaired Skin Integrity. A cast can trap moisture against the skin, which may lead to skin breakdown, irritation, or pressure ulcers. It is essential to regularly monitor the skin condition under the cast and provide appropriate skin care. Impaired Physical Mobility is also a concern, but the immediate risk of skin problems takes precedence due to the encased extremity. Acute Pain and Risk for Falls are valid concerns but are usually addressed after ensuring skin integrity is not compromised.