A 2-month-old infant is being treated with sequential casts for bilateral clubfoot (talipes equinovarus). new casts have just been applied. what should the nurse evaluate to determine that circulation to the feet remains sufficient?

Circulation to the feet can best be measured by applying pressure to the toes; a rapid return of color indicates adequate circulation. Both feet should be assessed and the responses compared for adequacy of circulation and symmetry. Drainage or no drainage on the cast is not an indicator of adequate circulation. An infant cannot express pain in a specific area; if the infant is uncomfortable, the infant will probably cry and be irritable. Flexion of the hips and knees does not indicate blood flow to the feet.