A nurse is preparing to administer enoxaparin to a client. Which of the following actions should the nurse plan to take?

Choice A reason: Apply intermittent ice to the affected ankle for the first 48 hours

Applying ice intermittently to the affected ankle for the first 48 hours helps reduce swelling and inflammation. Ice should be applied for 15-20 minutes every 2-3 hours during the initial phase of injury management. This practice is part of the RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) protocol commonly used for sprains and strains.

Choice B reason: Wrap the affected ankle with an elasticized compression bandage

Wrapping the affected ankle with an elasticized compression bandage helps to minimize swelling and provide support to the injured area. Compression bandages should be snug but not too tight to avoid restricting blood flow. This is another component of the RICE protocol.

Choice C reason: Apply full weight-bearing on the affected ankle

Applying full weight-bearing on the affected ankle is not recommended immediately after a second-degree sprain. The ankle needs time to heal, and weight-bearing should be gradually reintroduced as pain and swelling decrease. Initially, the client should avoid putting weight on the injured ankle to prevent further damage.

Choice D reason: Elevate the affected ankle above the level of the heart

Elevating the affected ankle above the level of the heart helps reduce swelling by promoting venous return and decreasing fluid accumulation in the injured area. This is an essential part of the RICE protocol and should be done as much as possible during the first 48 hours.

Choice E reason: Apply a heating pad intermittently to the affected ankle after 48 hours

Applying a heating pad intermittently to the affected ankle after 48 hours can help increase blood flow and promote healing. Heat therapy should be used after the initial acute phase (first 48 hours) when swelling has subsided. Heat can help relax muscles and reduce stiffness in the injured area.

Choice A reason: The statement “Normalcy begins to return to the community” describes the reconstruction phase of disaster response, not the heroic phase. During the reconstruction phase, efforts are focused on rebuilding and restoring the community to its pre-disaster state. This phase involves long-term recovery and the re-establishment of normalcy.

Choice B reason: The statement “Personnel are willing to work in dangerous conditions to provide assistance” accurately describes the heroic phase of disaster response. During this phase, there is an immediate and intense effort to save lives and prevent further harm. First responders, healthcare workers, and volunteers often work tirelessly and risk their own safety to provide urgent assistance and support to those affected by the disaster.

Choice C reason: The statement “Responders experience exhaustion due to extended relief efforts” pertains to the disillusionment phase of disaster response. In this phase, the initial adrenaline and motivation begin to wane, and responders may feel overwhelmed and fatigued by the prolonged demands of relief efforts. This phase can lead to burnout and a sense of frustration among responders.

Choice D reason: The statement “Survivors come together and share stories of survival” is characteristic of the honeymoon phase of disaster response. During this phase, there is a strong sense of community and solidarity among survivors. People come together to support each other, share their experiences, and find comfort in their shared resilience.