A nurse is caring for a client who is at 36 weeks of gestation and is undergoing a nonstress test (NST). The test is nonreactive. Which of the following interventions should the nurse suggest based on the findings?

Rationale for Correct Options:

Compartment syndrome is a serious complication that can occur after a fracture, particularly of a long bone like the femur. It results from increased pressure within a muscle compartment, leading to decreased blood flow and potential tissue damage.

Edema of the toes suggests swelling, which may indicate increasing pressure within the affected limb. The adolescent is already reporting significant pain (7/10) and has required repeated doses of IV morphine, which may not be sufficient to relieve compartment syndrome pain (a key warning sign). If left untreated, compartment syndrome can cause nerve and muscle damage, ischemia, and even permanent disability.

Rationale for Incorrect Options:

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): DVT is a risk with immobilization, but it usually presents with unilateral swelling, warmth, and pain in the affected limb, not just toe edema.

Fat Embolism Syndrome: This occurs due to fat globules entering circulation after a long bone fracture. Symptoms include respiratory distress, mental status changes, and petechiae, which are not present here.

A. Alternate activity and rest. Clients with heart failure should balance activity and rest to prevent overexertion and minimize cardiac workload. Frequent rest periods help conserve energy and reduce symptoms such as dyspnea and fatigue.
B. Reduce sodium intake to 2 g per day. Limiting sodium intake helps prevent fluid retention and reduces the risk of worsening heart failure. Excess sodium contributes to increased blood volume and exacerbates symptoms such as edema and shortness of breath.
C. Consume a low-fiber diet. A low-fiber diet is not necessary for heart failure management. Adequate fiber intake is beneficial for preventing constipation, which can increase strain during bowel movements and lead to hemodynamic stress. A high-fiber diet is generally encouraged.
D. Gradually increase activity each day. Clients should slowly increase their activity level based on tolerance to improve cardiovascular function. Overexertion should be avoided, but regular, controlled exercise helps maintain mobility and enhance overall heart health.
E. Eat small, frequent meals each day. Eating smaller meals reduces gastric distension and minimizes pressure on the diaphragm, which can help alleviate shortness of breath. Large meals can increase metabolic demands and contribute to discomfort in clients with heart failure.