A child has just returned from surgery for repair of a fractured femur.The child has a long-leg cast on.The toes on the leg with the cast are edematous,but they have color,sensitivity,and movement.What action should the nurse take?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

During the first few hours after a cast is applied,the chief concern is that the extremity may continue to swell to the extent that the cast becomes a tourniquet,shutting off circulation and producing neurovascular complications (compartment syndrome).One measure to reduce the likelihood of this problem is to elevate the body part and thereby increase venous return.The health care provider does not need to be notified because edema is expected and warm moist packs will not decrease the edema.The child should move the toes,but that will not help reduce the edema.

A Child Has Just Returned from Surgery for Repair of a Fractured