What is one of the key nursing considerations when providing care for a child in a cast?

One of the key nursing considerations when providing care for a child in a cast is to keep the cast dry at all times. This is crucial because moisture can weaken the material of the cast, potentially leading to skin irritation or breakdown under the cast, as well as impairing the healing process of the underlying injury. A wet cast may also create a breeding ground for bacteria, increasing the risk for infection.

Exposing the surfaces of the cast to promote drying is relevant in contexts where the cast may have been exposed to moisture, but it does not address the overarching requirement of keeping it dry overall. Therefore, while getting air circulation is beneficial to prevent moisture accumulation if a cast gets wet, the primary focus should remain on preventing any wetness in the first place.

Checking circulation regularly is also essential, but it should be done more frequently than every hour and depends on the specific situation and ongoing assessment of the child’s extremity. Wearing shoes over the cast is often not advised as it can lead to pressure points and potential complications, particularly if the cast is non-weight-bearing.

Thus, the importance of consistently maintaining a dry cast is fundamental to effective nursing care in this scenario.