What is a common nursing instruction for a patient with a cast?

The instruction to alert medical personnel if there's tightness or increasing pain is vital for patient safety and effective care management. A cast is designed to immobilize a fractured or injured limb, but it can cause complications if it is too tight or if there is increasing swelling inside the cast. This can lead to a condition known as compartment syndrome, where increased pressure within the muscle compartments can compromise circulation and nerve function.

By instructing patients to communicate any signs of tightness or pain that worsens, healthcare providers can take timely action, such as adjusting or replacing the cast, to prevent serious complications. This proactive approach is essential in ensuring the patient's comfort and protecting their limb from further injury.

The other choices present actions that could lead to complications or are unsafe. Keeping the cast covered in water can damage the cast and lead to skin maceration. Sticking objects inside the cast is unsafe and can injure the skin or disrupt the healing process by causing sores or infections. Removing the cast without professional guidance undermines the treatment protocol and can lead to improper healing.