A nurse is reinforcing teaching about nonpharmacological pain relief with a client who is 6 hr postpartum following a vaginal delivery. The client has an episiotomy and swelling of the labia. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?
a) Apply an ice pack to the perineal area intermittently.
b) Use a heating pad to promote blood flow to the perineum.
c) Take a hot bath to soothe the perineal discomfort.
d) Apply a topical analgesic cream liberally to the episiotomy site.