Question

the nurse observes that a client has removed the covering from an ice pack applied to the knee. which action should the nurse take first?
a reapply the covering after filling with fresh ice.
b instruct the client regarding the need for the covering
c observe the appearance of the skin under the ice pack.
d ask the client how long the ice was applied to the skin.

Explanation:

The nurse's first priority is to assess for any immediate harm to the client's skin from direct ice exposure, as direct contact can cause tissue damage like frostnip or frostbite. Assessing the skin status is the foundational initial step before other actions like client education or adjusting the ice pack.

Answer:

C. Observe the appearance of the skin under the ice pack.