skin
Cast care
SN advised patient to call doctor immediately if any of the following happen: The cast gets wet, damaged, or breaks, skin or nails on the toes below the cast become discolored, such as blue or gray, skin, or toes below the cast are numb, tingling, or cold, the swelling is more than before the cast was put on, bleeding, drainage, or bad smells come from the cast, and severe or new pain occurs. Patient verbalized understanding of instructions given.
SN instructed patient about cast care: keep the cast clean and avoid getting dirt or sand inside the cast. Do not apply powder or lotion on or near the cast. Cover the cast when eating, do not place anything inside the cast, even for itchy areas. Sticking items inside the cast can injure the skin and lead to infection. Using a hair dryer on the cool setting may help soothe itching, do not pull the padding out from inside your cast.