A 3-year-old is immobilized in a hip spica cast. Which discharge instruction should be given to the parents?
A. Keep the bed flat, with a small pillow beneath the cast
B. Provide crayons and a coloring book for play activity
C. Increase her intake of high-calorie foods for healing
D. Tuck a disposable diaper beneath the cast at the perineal opening
Correct Answer: D. Tuck a disposable diaper beneath the cast at the perineal opening
Option D: Tucking a disposable diaper at the perineal opening will help prevent the soiling of the cast by urine and stool.
Option A: The head of the bed should be elevated.
Option B: The child can place the crayons beneath the cast, causing pressure areas to develop.
Option C: The child does not need high-calorie foods that would cause weight gain while she is immobilized by the cast.