A nurse is caring for a client who has an ankle sprain and a prescription for an aquathermia pad. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

A. Apply the pad for 45 min per application: Heat therapy should generally be limited to 20 to 30 minutes to avoid burns and rebound vasoconstriction. Applying for 45 minutes increases the risk of tissue injury and is not recommended. B. Cover the pad with a pillowcase before application: Placing a thin barrier, such as a pillowcase, between the aquathermia pad and the skin helps prevent direct contact and reduces the risk of burns. This is the safest and most appropriate action. C. Set the temperature of the aquathermia pad to 50° C (122° F): The typical safe range for aquathermia pads is around 40° C (104° F). Setting the temperature to 50° C poses a high risk of skin injury, especially in clients with impaired sensation or circulation. D. Use safety pins to hold the pad in place: Safety pins can puncture the tubing of the pad, leading to leaks and malfunction. Straps or covers designed for the device should be used instead to secure it safely.