What nursing action is best to address a postoperative client complaining of itchiness under a cast?

Gently tapping on the outside of the cast can provide relief by stimulating the nerves in the area without compromising the integrity of the cast itself. This action can distract the patient from the itchiness, as it introduces a different sensation that might soothe the irritation. It’s particularly useful because it does not involve any invasive measures or medications, making it a low-risk and simple intervention.

In cases where a client feels itchiness under a cast, other options may not effectively address the discomfort. For example, administering pain relief medications may not target the itchiness directly, which is not necessarily linked to pain. While antihistamines might help in cases of allergic reactions causing itchiness, that’s not always the cause of itching under a cast. Blowing warm air into the cast could risk overheating the skin or introducing moisture, which can potentially lead to skin irritation or infection. Thus, gently tapping provides immediate, non-invasive relief without the potential complications associated with the other options.