A patient calls her primary care physician’s office. “My cast is much looser than when you all put it on last week,” she says. “Should I be worried?” What is the MOST reasonable answer to this question?

Question

(1 point)
Responses

“Gradual loosening of a cast is fine as long as no part of the cast falls off.”
“Gradual loosening of a cast is fine as long as no part of the cast falls off.”

“Please go to the emergency room immediately. You could end up with an avulsion.”
“Please go to the emergency room immediately. You could end up with an avulsion.”

“As long as you don’t see any redness or swelling around the cast, you should be all right.”
“As long as you don’t see any redness or swelling around the cast, you should be all right.”

“Please come in so we can check that out. Are you available this afternoon?”

Answer 1

The MOST reasonable answer to the patient's question is:

“Please come in so we can check that out. Are you available this afternoon?”

This response ensures that the patient's concerns are taken seriously and allows for a proper assessment of the cast and the condition of the limb. While gradual loosening might be expected, it is important to evaluate the situation in person to rule out any complications.