A nurse is caring for a pregnant patient who is at 16 weeks gestation and is concerned about varicose veins. Which of the following interventions should the nurse recommend?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Elevate the legs and avoid prolonged periods of standing. Elevating the legs helps improve circulation and reduces pressure on the veins, which can help alleviate varicose veins. Prolonged standing can worsen varicose veins by increasing pressure on the lower extremities.
A: Wearing tight compression stockings can further constrict blood flow and should be avoided.
C: Massaging the affected area may not be recommended as it can potentially increase the risk of blood clots in pregnant women.
D: Applying ice packs is not recommended for varicose veins as it may not effectively address the underlying issue of poor circulation.