A nurse is caring for a client who is immobile. Which of the following interventions should the nurse add to the client's plan of care to prevent foot drop?

Rationale: A. Keep the foot in plantar flexion: Maintaining the foot in plantar flexion increases the risk of developing foot drop by shortening the dorsiflexor muscles. This position does not support proper alignment or prevent contractures, making it counterproductive for prevention. B. Elevate the client's feet on pillows: Elevating the feet may help reduce edema but does not prevent foot drop. It does not maintain proper dorsiflexion or support the ankle in a neutral position, so it is not effective for contracture prevention. C. Brace the foot with an ankle-foot orthotic: An ankle-foot orthotic maintains the foot in a neutral position, preventing plantar flexion contractures and promoting proper alignment of the ankle. This intervention is highly effective for preventing foot drop in immobile clients by keeping the muscles and tendons stretched appropriately. D. Perform passive range of motion of the ankle twice per day: Passive range of motion helps maintain joint mobility and circulation but alone may be insufficient to prevent foot drop. Consistent bracing or positioning is necessary to maintain neutral alignment when the client is not actively moving the ankle.