The nurse gets a telephone call from a parent who wants to know what to do for her child who just twisted an ankle, which is beginning to swell and hurt. The nurse will advise the parent to do which of the following?

Question

a. Have the child stay in bed until the swelling and pain subsides.
b. Elevate the leg and use an ice pack to the ankle, alternating 30 minutes on and 15 off.
c. Apply alternating heat and cold with 15 minutes of heat and 15 minutes of cold.
d. Apply an Ace bandage or wrap securely and fairly tight with tape for 24 to 48 hours.

Answer 1

B

Feedback
A Incorrect. Elevation of the injured part and application of ice will reduce swelling. Rest or staying off the injury for several hours to several days is also important; however, elevation and ice are more critical.
B Correct. During the first 24 to 48 hours following a soft tissue injury of the ankle a parent should elevate the leg and use an ice pack to the ankle, alternating 30 minutes on and 15 off.
C Incorrect. The nurse will not advise the parent to apply alternating heat and cold with 15 minutes of heat and 15 minutes of cold.
D Incorrect. If an Ace bandage or wrap is used, it should not be wrapped too tightly as this may impair neurovascular status. Ice and elevation take priority over wrapping the ankle.