A nurse is preparing to change the bed linens of a client who has AIDS and is incontinent of stool. Which of the following personal protective equipment (PPE) should the nurse don prior to providing client care? (Select all that apply.)

Choice A reason: This is the best action, because compression stockings can help improve the blood flow and prevent the formation of new clots in the veins of the legs. Compression stockings can also reduce the swelling, pain, and inflammation caused by thrombophlebitis.

Choice B reason: This is an incorrect action, because cold compresses can cause vasoconstriction and worsen the blood flow and the clotting process in the affected vein. Cold compresses can also increase the discomfort and numbness of the extremity.

Choice C reason: This is an incorrect and dangerous action, because gently massaging the area can dislodge the clot and cause it to travel to the lungs, heart, or brain, resulting in a life-threatening complication, such as pulmonary embolism, myocardial infarction, or stroke.

Choice D reason: This is an incorrect and misleading statement, because heparin is not prescribed to dissolve the thrombus, but to prevent the growth and extension of the existing clot and the formation of new clots. Heparin is an anticoagulant that inhibits the clotting factors in the blood, but does not break down the clot. The body's own enzymes, such as plasmin, are responsible for dissolving the clot.

Choice A reason: This is an important action, but not the first one. The nurse should obtain the prescribed irrigation solution after assessing the client's pain level and providing analgesia if needed.

Choice B reason: This is an important action, but not the first one. The nurse should don personal protective equipment after assessing the client's pain level and providing analgesia if needed.

Choice C reason: This is the correct action, because checking the client's pain level is the first step in the wound care process. The nurse should assess the client's pain level using a valid and reliable pain scale, and administer analgesia as prescribed before irrigating the wound.

Choice D reason: This is an important action, but not the first one. The nurse should place a waterproof pad under the client's extremity after assessing the client's pain level and providing analgesia if needed.