The nurse is caring for a client with multiple sclerosis. What action does the nurse implement to increase venous return, prevent stiffness, and maintain muscle strength and endurance?

Choice A reason: Monitoring vital signs and neurological status frequently is a priority intervention for a client who has experienced a hemorrhagic stroke, as it helps to detect any changes in the client's condition and guide appropriate treatment. Hemorrhagic stroke is a medical emergency that occurs when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures and causes bleeding into the brain tissue. This can lead to increased intracranial pressure, cerebral edema, and brain damage. Therefore, the nurse should monitor the client's blood pressure, pulse, respiration, temperature, level of consciousness, pupil reaction, motor function, and sensory function frequently and report any abnormalities to the health care provider.

Choice B reason: Maintaining strict bed rest to minimize cerebral blood flow is not a priority intervention for a client who has experienced a hemorrhagic stroke, as it may not prevent further bleeding or improve the client's outcome. In fact, strict bed rest may increase the risk of complications such as deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, pneumonia, pressure ulcers, and muscle atrophy. The nurse should follow the health care provider's orders regarding the client's activity level and position. The nurse should also provide adequate hydration, nutrition, skin care, and comfort measures to the client.

Choice C reason: Administering anticoagulant medications as prescribed is not a priority intervention for a client who has experienced a hemorrhagic stroke, as it may worsen the bleeding and increase the risk of intracranial hemorrhage. Anticoagulant medications are used to prevent or treat ischemic stroke, which is caused by a blood clot that blocks a blood vessel in the brain. However, anticoagulant medications are contraindicated in hemorrhagic stroke, as they interfere with the blood's ability to clot and stop the bleeding. The nurse should avoid giving any medications that may affect coagulation or platelet function to the client unless ordered by the health care provider.

Choice D reason: Assisting the client with active range of motion exercises is not a priority intervention for a client who has experienced a hemorrhagic stroke, as it may not improve the client's neurological function or prevent complications. Active range of motion exercises are performed by the client with or without assistance from the nurse to maintain joint mobility and muscle strength. However, these exercises are not indicated in the acute phase of hemorrhagic stroke, as they may increase intracranial pressure or cause pain or discomfort to the client. The nurse should consult with the physical therapist before initiating any exercise program for the client.

Choice A: Limit fluid intake to prevent incontinence. This is incorrect because limiting fluid intake can lead to dehydration, urinary tract infections, and kidney stones. Fluid intake should be adequate to maintain hydration and flush out bacteria from the urinary tract.

Choice B: Provide regular perineal care to prevent skin breakdown. This is correct because reflex incontinence can cause urine leakage and skin irritation, which can increase the risk of infection and pressure ulcers. Regular perineal care can help keep the skin clean and dry, and prevent complications.

Choice C: Administer hypotonic IV fluids. This is incorrect because hypotonic IV fluids can cause fluid overload, hyponatremia, and cerebral edema. Hypotonic IV fluids are not indicated for clients with reflex incontinence.

Choice D: Teach Kegel exercises to strengthen the pelvic floor. This is incorrect because Kegel exercises are effective for clients with stress or urge incontinence, but not for clients with reflex incontinence. Reflex incontinence is caused by a loss of voluntary control over the bladder due to a spinal cord injury, and Kegel exercises cannot restore this function.