What is the best first aid response for a sprained ankle while hunting?

The most effective first aid response for a sprained ankle involves keeping the ankle elevated and applying ice. Elevating the ankle helps reduce swelling and supports circulation, while ice serves to numb the affected area and minimizes inflammation. This method follows the standard RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation) protocol for treating acute injuries like sprains. By addressing the injury promptly in this way, you help to alleviate pain and support the healing process, making it crucial for a hunter to remain mobile and less encumbered by the injury. The other choices do not provide appropriate care for a sprained ankle, as applying heat can exacerbate swelling, walking it off risks further damage, and ignoring the injury can lead to complications.