Final answer:
A nurse should never ignore a patient's complaints of pain in a cast as it could indicate serious risks such as infection, compartment syndrome, skin breakdown, or circulatory compromise, each of which requires prompt medical attention.
Step-by-step explanation:
A nurse must never ignore complaints of pain from a patient in a cast due to several serious risks. These complaints could be signaling:
- Risk of infection: Signs of pain could indicate an infection under the cast, which if left unattended, can spread and cause more serious health issues.
- Risk of compartment syndrome: This is a condition where increased pressure within the muscles can lead to nerve damage and blood vessel compression. It requires immediate medical attention.
- Risk of skin breakdown: Pain can be a symptom of skin irritation or ulcers forming under the cast, which could lead to infections if not addressed.
- Risk of circulatory compromise: Pain might also signify that the cast is too tight, restricting blood flow, which could lead to serious circulatory issues.
Ignoring pain could therefore potentially lead to severe complications, affecting the patient's recovery and overall health.