A nurse is caring for a client who has a strained knee and a prescription for ice therapy. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Choice A reason: Checking the skin after 15 minutes is appropriate to prevent tissue injury such as frostbite. Ice therapy should be monitored closely to ensure safety and effectiveness. Choice B reason: Applying ice directly to the skin is unsafe because it can cause frostbite and tissue damage. Ice should always be wrapped in a barrier such as a towel. Choice C reason: Ice therapy decreases blood flow by causing vasoconstriction, which reduces swelling and inflammation. Saying it increases blood flow is incorrect. Choice D reason: Heat therapy should not immediately follow ice therapy. Heat increases blood flow and swelling, which is contraindicated in the acute phase of injury.