Study Guide for Fundamentals of Nursing Care: Concepts, Connections & Skills - Musculoskeletal Care Related

Review Study Guide for Fundamentals of Nursing Care: Concepts, Connections & Skills - Musculoskeletal Care related questions and content

A patient is admitted with an elevated temperature and complaining of pain under his arm cast. A bad odor is noted coming from the elbow area of the cast. The patient tells you that his arm has been itching a great deal under the cast. What concern do you have?

  • A. The patient may have damaged the skin under the cast, causing infection.
  • B. The bone is not healing well under the cast, causing the pain.
  • C. The skin under the cast is breaking down because of pressure from the cast.
  • D. The patient may be developing gangrene (tissue death) under the cast, causing the odor.
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Fever, pain, odor, and itching suggest a possible infection under the cast, likely from skin damage. Gangrene is less likely without systemic symptoms, and bone healing issues don't cause odor.