Question

1,) Discuss proper care of a patient with a cast.

2.) Discuss what the nurse or patient should avoid regarding cast care.

3.) Discuss the importance of adequate circulation in relation to a connective tissue disorder.

Cite the reference. Thanks

Answer 1

1. A cast is applied to immobilize a part of body.
Nursing management of a plaster cast includes :

- assess the plaster cast for any sharp edges as it may cause damage to the skin underneath.

- assess the immobilized part regularly for adequate circulation through blanching test.
- assess the immobilized part regularly for sensations.
- assess the body part in plaster for motor functions by asking the patient to move his fingers or toes.
- instruct the patient to give proper rest to the immobilised part by not moving it and keep it elevated to avoid pain discomfort.
- check the immobilised part for any foul smell as this may indicate infection.
- assess the cast for any cracks or break in its integrity.
2. Dont's of plaster cast care :

- do not move the cast limb till its fully dry.
- do not keep wet cast on hard pr sharp area.
- do not insert objects inside the cast for scratching the skin underneath as it may cause skin damage.
- do not move the immobilised part or put weight on it.
- do not weight the cast.
3. Connective tissue disorders are a group of autoimmune diseases that attacks the connective tissue. It results in fatigue, fever, rash, muscle and joint pain, respiratory involvement.
It is important to maintain adequate blood supply to connective tissue as impaired blood supply may further damage the connective tissue resulting in exaggerated symptoms. It will result in increased tingling, numbness and paraesthesia, pain, muscle spasm and reduced mechanical property of connective tissue.