A child is status post an open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) for a broken right ankle and new leg cast. The patient complains of numbness distal to the cast on the right foot. The nurse's priority action is:

A. Assess color, capillary refill, movement, sensation of affected extremity: Numbness distal to a new cast may indicate compartment syndrome or neurovascular compromise, which is a surgical emergency. Immediate and thorough neurovascular assessment is essential to detect early ischemia and prevent permanent tissue damage. B. Apply ice directly to the hard cast surface to reduce swelling: Applying ice directly to a cast can cause skin injury or frostbite and does not address underlying neurovascular compromise. Swelling should be managed carefully with elevation and close monitoring. C. Elevate the limb and administer analgesic PRN then reassess in 4 hours: While elevation and analgesics are part of post-op care, delaying assessment for 4 hours risks missing acute neurovascular compromise, which requires immediate action. D. Massage area distal to cast to promote circulation: Massaging the limb under or near a cast can worsen swelling, cause tissue injury, or precipitate further vascular compromise. Circulation should be assessed, not manually manipulated.