A male client with diabetes mellitus (DM) is transferred from the hospital to a rehabilitation facility following treatment for a stroke with resulting right hemiplegia. The client reports his feet feel uncomfortably cool at night, preventing him from falling asleep. Which action should the nurse implement?

Choice A reason: Using a bed cradle to hold the covers off feet is not a good option for a client with DM and right hemiplegia, because it can increase the risk of injury and infection to the feet. The client may have reduced sensation and circulation in the feet due to diabetic neuropathy and peripheral vascular disease, which can make the feet more prone to ulcers, gangrene, and amputation. The client should keep the feet covered and protected from pressure and trauma. Choice B reason: Providing a warming pad (Aqua-pad or K-pad) to feet is the best option for a client with DM and right hemiplegia, because it can help improve the blood flow and comfort to the feet. The warming pad is a device that circulates warm water or air through a pad that is placed on the skin. The nurse should monitor the temperature and duration of the warming pad, and check the skin for signs of burns or blisters. Choice C reason: Placing warm blankets next to the client’s feet is not a reliable option for a client with DM and right hemiplegia, because it may not provide enough warmth and may slip off during the night. The client may not be able to adjust the blankets due to the hemiplegia, which can affect the movement and strength of the right side of the body. The client may also have difficulty feeling the blankets due to the neuropathy. Choice D reason: Medicating the client with a prescribed sedative is not a suitable option for a client with DM and right hemiplegia, because it does not address the underlying cause of the cool feet, and may have adverse effects on the client’s condition. The sedative may interact with the client’s other medications, such as insulin or oral hypoglycemics, and cause hypoglycemia, which can worsen the stroke recovery. The sedative may also cause respiratory depression, which can affect the oxygen delivery to the brain and the feet.