To address skin irritation from cast edges, which action is appropriate?

To address skin irritation from cast edges, which action is appropriate?

• A. Remove the cast temporarily
• B. Petaling the cast edges with adhesive tape
• C. Apply thick moisturizer to the skin under the cast
• D. Pad the edges with cotton balls and tape loosely

Answer: (B)

Irritation from cast edges comes from a rough edge rubbing against the skin. The best way to handle this is to smooth and protect that edge without taking pressure off the injured part. Petaling the edges with adhesive tape creates a thin, continuous barrier over the rough edge, so there’s less friction and shear against the skin. This keeps the cast in place and doesn’t introduce moisture or bulky padding that could cause maceration or loosen the cast. Removing the cast temporarily would undo immobilization. Applying thick moisturizer under the cast isn’t effective because moisture is trapped inside the cast and can irritate or macerate the skin. Padding the edges with cotton and taping loosely may still rub and shift, and can compromise the fit. So sealing the edge with adhesive tape directly protects the skin while preserving the cast's stability.

Irritation from cast edges comes from a rough edge rubbing against the skin. The best way to handle this is to smooth and protect that edge without taking pressure off the injured part. Petaling the edges with adhesive tape creates a thin, continuous barrier over the rough edge, so there’s less friction and shear against the skin. This keeps the cast in place and doesn’t introduce moisture or bulky padding that could cause maceration or loosen the cast.

Removing the cast temporarily would undo immobilization. Applying thick moisturizer under the cast isn’t effective because moisture is trapped inside the cast and can irritate or macerate the skin. Padding the edges with cotton and taping loosely may still rub and shift, and can compromise the fit. So sealing the edge with adhesive tape directly protects the skin while preserving the cast's stability.