Which item is part of the RICE protocol for sprains?

• A. Heat
• B. Brace
• C. Rest
• D. Massage

Answer: (C)

The item being tested is how to manage an acute sprain using the RICE approach. Rest is the part that reduces movement and load on the injured ligament right after the injury, which helps prevent further micro-tears and gives the tissue a chance to begin healing. Heat would increase blood flow and swelling in the early phase, so it’s not used now. A brace can provide protection, but it isn’t one of the four RICE components, and massage can aggravate swelling when the injury is new. The mnemonic RICE stands for Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation, with rest guiding the initial management to minimize additional damage while cold, compression, and elevation help control swelling and pain.