A nurse is caring for a client who is at 37 weeks of gestation and experiences a spontaneous rupture of membranes before labor has begun. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

A. A single light fixture along the sidewalk may not provide adequate lighting, increasing the risk of falls, and does not reflect proper home safety.

B. A small area rug at the front door can create a tripping hazard, indicating a need for improved safety measures.

C. Changing the batteries in the smoke alarms annually demonstrates that the client is maintaining functional smoke detectors, which is a key aspect of home safety. Regular maintenance of smoke alarms helps prevent fire-related injuries.

D. While a water heater set at 54° C (129.2° F) can prevent scalding, current safety recommendations suggest a slightly lower setting (around 49° C / 120° F) to maximize safety, so this is not the best indicator of proper understanding.

Rationale:
A. Elevate the affected forearm with pillows: Elevation helps reduce swelling and promotes venous return, which is critical in the immediate management of a fracture to prevent complications such as increased edema or impaired circulation.

B. Administer Ibuprofen 200 mg PO: The child reports pain at a level of 5, meeting the prescription threshold. Administering analgesia promptly helps manage discomfort and supports cooperation with further interventions, such as casting.

C. Place a nonadherent dressing on the right knee abrasion: While wound care is important, the abrasion is minor and not the most urgent concern. Prioritization focuses on the fractured limb and pain management.

D. Review cast care instructions with the child's parents: Education is important but is not the immediate priority before the cast is applied. It can be provided after the child is stabilized and pain is managed.

E. Explain the cast application procedure to the child: While preparing the child psychologically is important, immediate interventions to reduce pain and swelling take precedence over anticipatory teaching.

F. Apply ice packs to the fingers and along the right forearm: Ice helps reduce swelling and pain in the acute phase of the fracture. Applying ice in combination with elevation supports circulation and comfort while awaiting casting.