A child with a ankle sprain is being discharged from the emergency room. To promote tissue healing and relieve discomfort, nurse Julia instructs the parents to:
a. Apply cold compress to the affected area
b. Keep the extremity in a dependent position
c. Apply a hot compress to the affected area
d. Restrict activity until there is no swelling to the affected area
Answer A. Cold minimizes swelling and erythema to the affected area.
However, cold compresses should not be applied continuously for more than 30 minutes.
a. Apply cold compress to the affected area
b. Keep the extremity in a dependent position
c. Apply a hot compress to the affected area
d. Restrict activity until there is no swelling to the affected area
Answer A. Cold minimizes swelling and erythema to the affected area.
However, cold compresses should not be applied continuously for more than 30 minutes.
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Physiological Integrity