Question

A nurse provides information to a client with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) about methods of alleviating shortness of breath while the client is eating. Which statement by the client indicates a need for further instruction? A. "I should rest before I eat." B. "I should use my bronchodilator 30 minutes before I eat." C. "Pursed-lip breathing will help relieve my shortness of breath." D. "I should eat three meals a day, and the biggest meal should be at suppertime."

Answer 1

The client's statement that they should eat a big meal at suppertime indicates a need for further instruction because it can worsen shortness of breath in COPD.

Step-by-step explanation:

The correct answer is D. "I should eat three meals a day, and the biggest meal should be at suppertime."

This statement indicates a need for further instruction because eating a big meal at suppertime can put additional strain on the respiratory system and make it harder to breathe. In COPD, large meals can cause the stomach to push against the diaphragm, reducing the lung's ability to expand fully and worsening shortness of breath. It is recommended for individuals with COPD to eat smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day instead of large meals.

Resting before eating (option A) is a good strategy to conserve energy and reduce shortness of breath. Using a bronchodilator 30 minutes before eating (option B) can help open up the airways and improve breathing. Pursed-lip breathing (option C) can also be an effective technique to relieve shortness of breath by slowing exhaling and keeping the airways open.

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