The nurse knows that the first-line treatment for localized inflammation (for example, on a patient’s ankle) is RICE.
This acronym means:

A lack of insurance or lack of sufficient insurance is a huge barrier in accessing health care. According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, uninsured people are less likely to receive preventive care and services for major health conditions and chronic diseases. They also face greater difficulties in affording care and paying medical bills.

Choice B is wrong because politics is not the only factor that affects the availability and affordability of health insurance. Other factors include income, employment status, age, health status, and geographic location. Nurses have a professional and ethical responsibility to advocate for the health needs of their clients and communities, which may involve engaging with political issues. Choice C is wrong because language is not the only problem for uninsured or underinsured clients. Other problems include cost, access, quality, and continuity of care. Language barriers may affect communication and understanding between clients and providers, but they can be addressed by using interpreters, translators, or culturally competent staff.

Choice D is wrong because the Joint Commission does not regulate insurance coverage. The Joint Commission is an independent, nonprofit organization that accredits and certifies health care organizations and programs in the United States. It sets standards for quality and safety of care, but it does not determine who is eligible for insurance or what benefits are covered.

Replacing wet clothing with dry clothing is an independent nursing intervention that can help prevent further heat loss and gradually warm the patient. Soaking extremities in hot water (choice A) is not recommended because it can cause vasodilation and hypotension. Administering warmed intravenous fluids (choice B) and administering hot whirlpool therapy (choice C) are not independent nursing interventions because they require a physician’s order. They are also not appropriate for mild to moderate hypothermia because they can cause rapid rewarming and cardiac dysrhythmias.