Final answer:
The nurse should provide pain medication and encourage a slow, controlled descent onto the bedpan to maximize comfort during use after knee surgery and elevate the head of the bed to a comfortable position.
Step-by-step explanation:
The best way for the nurse to maximize comfort while the patient uses the bedpan after knee surgery is to provide adequate pain medication and encourage a slow, controlled descent onto the bedpan. This ensures that the patient has the necessary pain relief and support when using the bedpan. Additionally, the nurse should elevate the head of the bed to a comfortable position to promote ease during the process.