A Client with a Sprained Wrist Is Prescribed Cold Therapy

Multiple Choice

A client with a sprained wrist is prescribed cold therapy.Which should the nurse explain about this treatment as compared to heat therapy?

A) "Cold therapy decreases swelling and pressure on nearby nerves, which helps decrease pain."
B) "Heat therapy decreases swelling by constricting vessels and nerves, which can increase discomfort."
C) "Heat therapy decreases pain by increasing oxygen and nutrients to the injured area."
D) "Cold therapy increases the inflammatory process, which speeds healing and decreases discomfort."