HOW GOOD ARE YOUR CIRCULATORY ASSESSMENT SKILLS

Updated 11/24

Dear nurses,

If the patient in your care had a fracture of an extremity and a plaster cast
was put in place, would you know how to check for good circulation?
Here are some helpful tips:

- always follow MD orders

- circulation checks of the fingers /toes for pulses, warmth and color

- check for movement, swelling and pain

- document and report an increase in swelling, loss of sensation and coolness.
 These are warning signs of poor circulation.

- typically, elevation of the affected limb on pillows, help to reduce swelling.