A client with no known history of peripheral vascular disease comes to the emergency department complaining of sudden onset of lower leg pain. Inspection and palpation reveal absent pulses, paresthesia, and a mottled, cyanotic, cold, and cadaverous left calf. While the physician determines the appropriate therapy, the nurse should()
A. place a heating pad around the affected calf.
B. elevate the affected leg as high as possible.
C. keep the affected leg level or slightly dependent.
D. shave the affected leg in anticipation of surgery.