Question

A client arrives in the emergency department reporting an injury to a calf muscle while running. What education will the nurse provide after a diagnosis of muscle strain? Select all that apply.

Continue exercising unless there is pain.

Apply heat to the injured area.

Keep the injured limb elevated.

Consult a health care provider within 1 week.

Apply an elastic bandage to the injured area.

Answer 1

The nurse should provide education on PRICE steps and consulting a healthcare provider.

Step-by-step explanation:

After a diagnosis of muscle strain, the nurse should provide the following education:

1. Apply the PRICE steps:
   Protection: Apply soft padding to minimize further damage.
   Rest: Rest the muscle to promote healing.
   Ice: Apply ice every two hours to reduce swelling and pain.
   Compression: Apply a stretchy bandage to reduce swelling.
   Elevation: Keep the injured limb elevated to reduce blood pooling.
2. Consult a healthcare provider within 1 week.