Question

A child with scoliosis has a spica cast applied. Which action specific to the spica cast should be taken? A. Checking the bowel sounds B. Assessing the blood pressure C. Offering pain medication D. Checking for swelling

Short answer

Answer: Checking for swelling.

Step-by-step solution

Introduction to Spica Cast

Spica cast is a type of body cast used primarily for the treatment of hip and thigh conditions in children with scoliosis. It provides immobilization and support to the affected area, allowing proper healing and preventing further injury. It is essential to monitor the child's overall health while they are in a spica cast.

Option A: Checking Bowel Sounds

Monitoring bowel sounds is important for patients in a spica cast because the cast may be compressing the abdominal area. This could lead to constipation or other gastrointestinal issues. While it is essential to monitor bowel sounds, this action is not specific to a spica cast.

Option B: Assessing Blood Pressure

Assessing blood pressure is a crucial part of routine medical care, but it is not specific to the care for a child in a spica cast. Blood pressure mainly provides information about the patient's cardiovascular system rather than the conditions specific to the use of a spica cast.

Option C: Offering Pain Medication

Pain medication can be offered if the child is experiencing significant discomfort or pain due to the scoliosis or the spica cast. However, offering pain medication is not specific to the spica cast - it's a general measure taken to manage pain in various medical conditions.

Option D: Checking for Swelling

Checking for swelling is specific to the care of a child in a spica cast since any swelling or skin changes underneath the cast may indicate a potential problem, such as pressure injuries or infection. Monitoring this can guide prompt intervention if necessary, and ensure proper healing and recovery while the child is in a spica cast.

Conclusion

After analyzing each of the options, it is clear that the specific action that should be taken for a child with scoliosis who has a spica cast applied is Option D: Checking for swelling. This measure is directed to monitor the patient's condition while in a spica cast, ensuring proper recovery and preventing complications.