A nurse is assisting with the plan of care for an infant who has heart failure. Which of the following actions should the nurse recommend to include in the plan of care?

Choice A rationale:
Pain following range-of-motion exercises is a significant finding that should be reported to the provider. It could indicate the possibility of complications, such as further injury or impaired healing. Adolescents with fractured bones are often encouraged to perform range-of-motion exercises to prevent stiffness and promote circulation. However, increased pain during or after these exercises could indicate problems like muscle strain or improper alignment of the fracture, which need to be addressed promptly.
Choice B rationale:
Pruritus (itching) under the cast is common and can be expected due to the accumulation of dead skin cells and sweat. While it can be uncomfortable for the client, it's not an urgent concern that requires immediate reporting to the provider. Strategies to alleviate itching, such as using a cool blow dryer under the cast, can be taught to the client.
Choice C rationale:
The presence of swelling while the extremity is dependent is a normal response to gravity and is not an alarming finding. Swelling when the extremity is dependent is expected, especially within the initial stages of fracture healing. It suggests that the blood supply is reaching the area for healing purposes. Elevation and rest can help reduce the swelling.
Choice D rationale:
Coolness of the toes could be due to reduced blood flow, but this finding alone may not be an immediate concern. It's essential to consider the client's overall circulation, capillary refill, and presence of pulses. If other signs of impaired circulation, such as pallor or delayed capillary refill, are present along with coolness, it might indicate compromised vascular supply. However, based on the information provided, this choice is not as urgent as reporting pain following range-of-motion exercises.

Choice A rationale:
Encouraging active range of motion of the extremity is not recommended during the first 12 to 24 hours after a sprained wrist. Early movement can potentially worsen the swelling and delay the healing process.
Choice B rationale:
Applying warm compresses to the extremity is not the best choice to minimize swelling in the initial 12 to 24 hours after a sprained wrist. Heat can actually increase blood flow and promote more swelling in the injured area.
Choice C rationale:
Elevating the extremity above the level of the heart is the correct choice for minimizing swelling in the first 12 to 24 hours after a sprained wrist. Elevating the injured area helps to reduce blood flow to the area, which in turn decreases swelling and promotes healing.

Choice D rationale:
Wrapping the extremity loosely with an elastic bandage might be beneficial for providing support, but it's not the primary intervention for minimizing swelling in the first 12 to 24 hours after a sprained wrist. Elevation is more effective for reducing swelling during this initial period.