A nurse is caring for an adolescent following the application of a plaster cast for a fractured right tibia. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

A. Keep the client's leg in a dependent position. Keeping the leg in a dependent position can increase swelling and delay healing. The leg should be elevated to reduce swelling and promote circulation. B. Use a hair dryer on a hot setting to dry the cast. Using a hair dryer on a hot setting can cause burns and does not effectively dry a plaster cast. Plaster casts take time to dry and should be air-dried naturally. C. Discourage the client from ambulating: Early mobilization is encouraged to prevent complications like muscle atrophy and joint stiffness, as long as it is safe and the healthcare provider has approved it. Completely discouraging ambulation is not generally recommended unless specified by a doctor. D. Perform a neurovascular check of the lower extremities. Neurovascular checks are essential to ensure that there is adequate blood flow and nerve function below the cast. This includes checking for pain, pallor, pulse, paresthesia, and paralysis (the 5 P’s). This helps detect complications like compartment syndrome or decreased circulation early.