A nurse is caring for a 9-year-old child at a clinic. Exhibits After reviewing the discharge instructions with the family, which of the following statements by a parent indicate an understanding of the teaching? For each statement by the parent, click to specify if the statement reflects an understanding or indicates a need for reinforcement of the discharge teaching.

“It is important that our child avoids placing anything inside the cast.”: This reflects an understanding. Inserting objects inside the cast can cause injury, skin breakdown, or infection, and should be avoided. “We should notify the provider if the cast becomes loose over time.”: This reflects an understanding. A loose cast could lead to inadequate immobilization or further injury. Parents should report any loosening to the provider. “We should prop the casted arm on pillows for the next 24 hours.”: This needs reinforcement. The cast should be elevated to reduce swelling, but it should not be kept elevated for 24 hours continuously. Parents should be taught to elevate the arm in intervals and monitor for signs of increased swelling or discomfort. “We need to be very careful about how we handle the cast for the first 2 days while it dries.”: This reflects an understanding. It is important to handle the cast with care while it is drying to prevent deformities or indentations in the cast that could interfere with proper healing.