Final answer:
The nurse should suggest that the client take calcium supplements to help alleviate symptoms of weight gain and muscle cramps during menstruation. Exercise, warm baths, and ibuprofen are also beneficial, while increasing caffeine intake and decreasing water intake are not recommended.
Step-by-step explanation:
The best measure for a client experiencing weight gain and muscle cramps during the menstrual period, among the options provided, is c) Take calcium supplements. Calcium has been found to help alleviate menstrual symptoms, including cramps and bloating. Many teen girls and women experience cramping and pain before and during menstruation, which is generally nothing to worry about. Helpful measures include taking a warm bath, using a heating pad, engaging in exercise, and taking pain relievers like ibuprofen if necessary. It's important to note that increasing caffeine intake or decreasing water consumption could possibly worsen symptoms, and while some believe that avoiding exercise during menstruation might be beneficial, physical activity is often recommended to help reduce cramps and improve mood.
However, if the pain is severe or symptoms are unusually bothersome, the client should consult a healthcare provider for stronger medication or additional management strategies, such as birth control pills which can
increase the production of estrogen and progesterone
by the ovaries, potentially
increasing the flow phase
of the menstrual cycle and thus relieving symptoms.