The nurse is caring for a patient with swelling and redness following an ankle sprain. Which action by the nurse is most appropriate?
Apply a warm compress to the ankle
Elevate the ankle above heart level
Encourage weight-bearing exercises
Wrap the ankle tightly with a bandage
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: Applying a warm compress may increase swelling by promoting blood flow, which is contraindicated in acute sprains. Elevation reduces edema by gravity-assisted drainage, making warm compresses less appropriate for initial sprain management.
Choice B reason: Elevating the ankle above heart level is the most appropriate action, as it reduces swelling and redness by promoting venous and lymphatic drainage. This aligns with RICE (rest, ice, compression, elevation) protocol, making it the primary intervention for an acute sprain.
Choice C reason: Encouraging weight-bearing exercises is inappropriate for an acute sprain, as it may worsen injury and swelling. Rest and elevation are needed initially, with exercises introduced later in recovery, making this an incorrect action.
Choice D reason: Wrapping the ankle provides compression, which is helpful, but elevation more directly reduces swelling in the acute phase. Compression is a secondary RICE component, making elevation the priority for immediate swelling control in a sprain.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Tiny blood clots in the urine (hematuria) suggest urinary tract infection or trauma, not directly related to incontinence or mobility issues. Skin irritation from prolonged urine exposure is more expected, making this finding less likely in this patient patient.
Choice B reason: Skin irritation and redness in the perineal area are expected in urinary incontinence and impaired mobility, as prolonged moisture and pressure cause maceration and dermatitis. This is a common complication requiring skin protection, making it the correct finding finding.
Choice C reason: Increased urinary frequency may occur in incontinence but is not the primary concern compared to skin damage from constant moisture due to impaired mobility. Perineal irritation is a more direct consequence, making this less specific to the described scenario.
Choice D reason: Decreased urine specific gravity indicates dilute urine, unrelated to incontinence or mobility. It may occur in overhydration, but skin irritation from urine exposure is the most relevant finding in this patient context, making this incorrect incorrect.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Asking the client to state their name is useful but less reliable than a wristband, as confusion or language barriers may lead to errors. Wristbands provide objective identification, making this secondary.
Choice B reason: Checking the client’s wristband is the most reliable method, as it contains verified identifiers (name, medical record number). This ensures accurate identification, making it the correct action for verification.
Choice C reason: Asking a family member is unreliable, as they may be mistaken or absent. Wristbands provide standardized, objective identification, making family confirmation inappropriate and less accurate.
Choice D reason: Comparing the client’s face to a photo is useful but not always available or reliable, especially in emergencies. Wristband verification is standard and objective, making this a secondary method.
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