A nurse is caring for a client who has an acute ankle sprain.Which of the following actions should the nurse take? (Select all that apply.)

Choice A rationale Compression is a key component of the R.I.C.E. (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) protocol, which is the standard treatment for acute sprains. Applying an elastic bandage or wrap to the injured ankle reduces interstitial edema and internal bleeding by increasing external tissue pressure, thereby limiting the development of excessive swelling and contributing to pain reduction and faster healing. Choice B rationale Elevation of the injured ankle above the level of the heart utilizes gravity to decrease hydrostatic pressure in the local capillaries. This physiological mechanism promotes the venous and lymphatic return of excess interstitial fluid and accumulated inflammatory exudate from the injured area back into central circulation, which significantly minimizes swelling and throbbing pain. Choice C rationale Applying heat to an acute injury, such as an ankle sprain, is contraindicated within the first 48 to 72 hours. Heat induces vasodilation, which would increase blood flow and capillary permeability to the site, thus exacerbating the acute inflammatory response, edema, and localized hemorrhage, leading to significantly increased swelling, pain, and potentially delayed healing. Choice D rationale Movement (especially weight-bearing or full range of motion) is generally discouraged in the acute phase of an ankle sprain. Early movement can disrupt the initial healing of the damaged ligaments and potentially cause further microtrauma, increasing inflammation, pain, and instability. Immobilization and protected range of motion are preferred to allow the initial repair processes to establish stability. Choice E rationale Rest is essential to minimize mechanical stress on the injured ligaments and soft tissues, which allows the initial inflammatory and repair phases of healing to occur unimpeded. Resting the joint prevents the further tearing of damaged fibers and the aggravation of surrounding tissues, reducing pain signals and minimizing metabolic demand, thereby facilitating the body's natural regenerative processes.