A nurse is caring for a toddler who has a short leg cast. Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider?
Explanation & Rationale
A. Warm temperature of the distal extremity: Warmth is a normal finding and indicates proper blood flow to the extremity.B. Positive pedal pulse in the distal extremity: A positive pedal pulse is a good sign indicating that circulation is adequate in the extremity.C. Pallor of the distal extremity: Pallor can indicate compromised blood flow or ischemia, which is a serious condition that needs immediate attention. This could be a sign that the cast is too tight or that there is another issue affecting circulation.D. Mobility of the distal extremity: Mobility of the distal extremity indicates that the cast is not too tight and that nerve function is likely intact. It is a positive sign and generally not a concern unless there are other symptoms.