A nurse is working with a client who becomes combative and threatens other clients and staff. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Choice A reason: Hand tremors are not a primary symptom of anaphylaxis, which epinephrine treats. Tremors may occur from anxiety or other conditions, but epinephrine’s beta-adrenergic effects target airway dilation and vasoconstriction, not neurologic stabilization, making this unrelated to its acute therapeutic purpose.

Choice B reason: Shortness of breath, common in anaphylaxis, results from bronchoconstriction and airway swelling. Epinephrine acts on beta-2 receptors to relax bronchial smooth muscle, reversing dyspnea. This aligns with its primary use in allergic reactions, restoring oxygenation by counteracting histamine-induced distress.

Choice C reason: Nausea may accompany anaphylaxis due to systemic histamine release, but epinephrine does not directly treat it. Its focus is on reversing airway and vascular collapse, not gastrointestinal symptoms, which are secondary, making this an incidental, not primary, target of action.

Choice D reason: Hyperglycemia is not an anaphylactic symptom; epinephrine may raise blood sugar as a side effect via glycogenolysis, but this is irrelevant to its emergency use. It targets airway obstruction, not metabolic states, making this a misaligned choice for its therapeutic intent.

Choice A reason: Pointing toes eases stocking application, reducing drag on skin. Scientifically, this aligns with proper technique, enhancing venous return without resistance, so no intervention is needed, as it supports effective antiembolic function per guidelines.

Choice B reason: Creases on the front risk pressure sores or impaired circulation, countering antiembolic goals. Scientifically, smooth application prevents venous stasis, requiring intervention, as this error compromises blood flow and skin integrity in at-risk clients.

Choice C reason: Turning stockings inside out aids application, a standard technique for even fit. Scientifically, this ensures proper compression gradient, supporting venous return, so no intervention is warranted, as it’s correct per procedural evidence.

Choice D reason: Applying before getting out of bed maximizes compression benefits, reducing clot risk. Scientifically, this aligns with prophylaxis timing, as gravity aids swelling post-ambulation, making it appropriate and not requiring nurse intervention.