Question

A patient is seen in the emergency department for a sprained ankle. What initial interventions should the nurse teach the patient for treatment of this soft tissue injury?

Warm, moist heat and massage
Rest, ice, compression, and elevation
Antipyretic and antibiotic drug therapy
Active movement and exercise to prevent stiffness

Answer 1

Initial interventions for a sprained ankle in the emergency department should follow the RICE technique, which includes Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation. These actions help reduce swelling, pain, and promote healing. Heat and active exercise are typically introduced later in the recovery process.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a patient is seen in the emergency department for a sprained ankle, the appropriate initial interventions a nurse should teach the patient include the following steps of the RICE technique:

• Rest: Avoid putting weight on the ankle to promote healing.
• Ice: Apply ice to reduce swelling and pain.
• Compression: Use a compression bandage to minimize swelling.
• Elevation: Elevate the ankle above heart level to decrease swelling.

It is important to remember that these measures should be taken shortly after the injury and continue for several days to assist with recovery. While treatment for more severe injuries may require surgery, initial at-home care for a sprain relies on these non-invasive steps. Physical therapy may also become part of the recovery process, following acute injury management. The use of heat packs and a gradual increase in activity are typically recommended later in the healing process, not as initial interventions for acute injuries.