A nurse is instructing a client on the maintenance of their cast. Which of the following instructions should be given to the client?
Explanation & Rationale
A. "Trim off the rough edges of the cast if it bothers you in order to promote comfort.": The rough edges should be addressed by the healthcare provider to prevent injury to the skin, as cutting the cast improperly could cause damage to the structure or harm the client. B. "You might feel tightness and pain with the cast and that is a normal feeling.": Tightness and pain could indicate complications such as compartment syndrome, which requires immediate attention. The client should report any unusual or severe pain, and tightness. C. "You might feel itchy under the cast, and it is okay to scratch under the cast with a very slim tool.": Scratching under the cast with any object can cause skin irritation, injury, or infection. Itching can be managed with prescribed methods, but inserting objects into the cast should be avoided. D. "Once the cast is dry, you can shower if you cover it with a plastic covering.": After the cast is fully dry, the client can protect it from water by covering it with a plastic bag or other waterproof covering during showers to keep it dry and intact.