Which intervention should a nurse anticipate for a client with a severe ankle sprain?

For a client with a severe ankle sprain, the use of ice bags is a critical intervention. Ice therapy helps to reduce swelling and inflammation, which are common responses to a sprain. Applying ice to the injured area can also alleviate pain by numbing the tissues and reducing blood flow, which is essential in the first 24 to 48 hours following the injury.

In the context of managing a severe ankle sprain, ice therapy is often part of the R.I.C.E. (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) protocol recommended for initial treatment. This approach promotes healing by minimizing tissue damage and managing symptoms effectively.

While physical therapy can play a significant role in recovery, especially after the initial acute phase has passed, it is not typically initiated immediately. Similarly, narcotics may be prescribed for severe pain but are usually considered after non-opioid analgesics or other pain management strategies, like ice, have been employed. The use of a donut cushion is more appropriate for conditions like tailbone injuries or pressure relief rather than for an ankle sprain, making ice bags the most suitable initial intervention in this scenario.