Final answer:
The most appropriate time for a nurse to provide post-operative teaching to a client after abdominal surgery is prior to discharge, which allows the client to be alert and focused on their recovery and care instructions.
Step-by-step explanation:
The most appropriate time for a nurse to provide teaching to a client recovering from abdominal surgery is d) Prior to discharge. This timing ensures that the client has recovered enough from the anesthesia and the immediate effects of the surgery to be receptive to learning. Prior to discharge, the client is usually more alert and can focus on instructions for their care at home. This period also allows the client to ask any questions and clarify doubts about post-operative care, medication management, and follow-up appointments. The teaching should be a comprehensive review by the nurse, echoing the surgical team's concern for recovery and ongoing care of the patient post-surgery.