What is generally safer than a circumferential cast for a freshly injured, swollen limb?
Use a splint initially and reassess for casting as swelling subsides; it can accommodate swelling better than a rigid circumferential cast.
Study 6 Casts with 12 free online flashcards. Review key terms, definitions, and concepts with this interactive flashcard deck.
What is generally safer than a circumferential cast for a freshly injured, swollen limb?
Use a splint initially and reassess for casting as swelling subsides; it can accommodate swelling better than a rigid circumferential cast.
How can a patient help reduce swelling during the first few days in a cast?
Elevate the limb above heart level when possible to help reduce swelling.
Which part of the hand should be used to mold a setting cast?
Mold the setting cast with the palms, not the fingertips, to avoid creating pressure indentations.
How should padding fit under a cast?
Padding should protect the skin without being tight.
What should be checked before and after cast application?
Compare distal color, temperature, capillary refill, sensation, movement, and—when appropriate—pulse.
Does a normal pulse alone rule out a cast-related problem?
No. A normal pulse alone does not rule out a developing problem; also watch for worsening pain, sensory changes, or reduced movement.
What should a patient do with fingers or toes left exposed by a cast?
Gently move exposed fingers or toes to maintain movement and support circulation.
How should a patient protect a cast from moisture?
Keep the cast clean and dry; moisture can damage it or irritate the skin.
What should a patient do with an itch beneath a cast instead of inserting an object?
Do not put objects inside the cast; they can injure the skin.
Should a patient cut or trim their cast themselves?
Do not cut, trim, or otherwise alter the cast yourself; altering it can injure skin or compromise support.
How should a patient decide when to bear weight on a cast?
Follow the care team's instructions; weight-bearing and follow-up plans depend on the injury.
Which changes to a cast should be reported to the care team?
Report a cracked, soft, or unusually loose cast to the care team.
A medium-difficulty quiz on applying person-centred principles of fundamental care, including dignity, choice, safety, independence, infection prevention, and observation.
A 14-question quiz on coordinating care, supporting safe transitions, and maintaining continuity across providers and settings.
A medium-difficulty quiz on generating plausible hypotheses, comparing urgency and risk, explaining priorities, and revising them as patient cues change.
Learn how to develop plausible explanations from clinical cues, rank problems by urgency and risk, and revise priorities as a patient's condition changes.
Review how to assess patients, recognize changes, respond to pain, and communicate findings clearly.
Learn how to verify a patient’s identity safely before care, what to do when information does not match, and how to proceed when a patient cannot confirm their identity.
Learn how to compare plausible explanations for a client’s findings and prioritize the concern that poses the greatest immediate risk.
Learn how to provide respectful, individualized assistance with daily activities while supporting safety, comfort, independence, and early recognition of changes.
A medium-difficulty quiz on setting measurable patient goals and selecting, implementing, and evaluating interventions that address the priority problem.
Learn how to support safe, comfortable, and independent toileting, provide elimination and skin care, and recognize changes that require reporting or urgent attention.
Learn how to implement safe, prioritized nursing interventions, respond to deterioration, communicate concerns, and reassess patient outcomes.
Practice applying the NGN clinical judgment steps, using common item formats, and interpreting client changes.