What is the immediate action a nurse should take for a client with periorbital ecchymosis after an eye injury?

Applying ice to the affected eye is a crucial immediate action for a client with periorbital ecchymosis following an eye injury. The application of ice helps to reduce swelling and minimize bruising by constricting blood vessels in the area. This cooling effect can alleviate pain and provide comfort, as well as help in preventing further tissue damage from inflammation.

Addressing the immediate symptoms after an injury is important, and ice is commonly recommended in first aid responses for soft tissue injuries, including those around the eye. It’s important to apply ice in a manner that prevents direct contact with the skin—using a cloth or an ice pack helps avoid any potential skin damage caused by cold exposure.

While other options could be relevant in a broader treatment context, they do not provide the immediate benefit of reducing swelling and managing pain as effectively as ice does right after an eye injury.