A nurse is planning care for a client who has a deep vein thrombosis in the right leg. Which is the following actions should the nurse include in the plan?

A. Maintain client on bed rest: Strict bed rest is no longer routinely recommended for DVT unless complications arise. Early ambulation, if not contraindicated, can help prevent further clot formation and promote circulation. Prolonged immobilization may increase the risk of thrombus extension. B. Elevate the client's affected extremity: Elevating the affected leg above heart level helps reduce venous pressure, swelling, and discomfort associated with DVT. This non-invasive intervention promotes venous return without increasing the risk of dislodging the thrombus, making it a safe and effective component of care. C. Apply cold compresses to the client's affected extremity: Cold compresses are typically used for acute inflammation or localized trauma. In DVT, applying cold may not provide significant benefit and does not address the underlying venous obstruction or edema, so it is not routinely recommended. D. Massage the muscle of the client's affected extremity: Massaging a limb with DVT is contraindicated because it can dislodge the thrombus, potentially causing a life-threatening pulmonary embolism. This action poses a high safety risk and must be strictly avoided.