Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 78%
Simulated
While the client is waiting for the ankle to be X-rayed, which nursing measure is most helpful for relieving the soft-tissue swelling?
Correct answer
B
Rationale
Applying ice is the most effective initial measure to reduce soft-tissue swelling by causing vasoconstriction, which decreases blood flow and fluid accumulation in the injured area. Heat may increase swelling, exercise could exacerbate the injury, and immobilization alone does not address swelling as directly.