Question

A nurse is teaching disease management techniques to a client who has COPD. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include in the teaching?

A: Avoid activities that increase the respiratory rate.
B: Use pursed-lip breathing when feeling short of breath.
C: Consume a diet high in carbohydrates for increased energy.
D: Limit fluid intake to 1.5 L daily

Answer 1

The nurse should teach the client with COPD to use pursed-lip breathing when feeling short of breath and to avoid activities that increase the respiratory rate.

Step-by-step explanation:

When teaching disease management techniques to a client with COPD, the nurse should include the instruction to use pursed-lip breathing when feeling short of breath. Pursed-lip breathing helps to prolong exhalation, keep the airways open, and improve oxygen exchange. This technique can provide relief and reduce breathlessness in individuals with COPD.

The instruction to avoid activities that increase the respiratory rate is also important to manage COPD. These activities can lead to increased shortness of breath and may exacerbate the symptoms. Therefore, the client should be encouraged to pace themselves and avoid strenuous activities that put too much strain on their lungs.

The instructions to consume a diet high in carbohydrates for increased energy and to limit fluid intake to 1.5 L daily are not directly related to COPD management and are not the appropriate instructions in this context.