To reduce anxiety during cast removal, the patient should be told that:

• A. the cast cutter will be noisy but will not cut her skin.
• B. the doctor can tell when the blade is too close to the skin by the change in sound.
• C. to must remain still through out the procedure to prevent injury.
• D. A tranquilizer will be given to you to relieve your anxiety.

Answer: (B)

Providing accurate, concrete information helps reduce anxiety by giving the patient a clear, observable cue to anticipate what will happen. In cast removal, the sound of the cast cutter changes as the blade gets close to the skin. Knowing that a change in tone means the blade is near contact allows the patient to understand that the clinician is monitoring closely and will pause or adjust if needed. This sense of predictability and control is reassuring and lowers fear. Other options either rely on uncertain assurances (the blade not cutting skin) or describe steps that don’t directly ease anxiety (needing to stay still) or involve sedation, which isn’t routine.