Final answer:
The nurse should teach a client with COPD to cough twice, first to loosen and then to expel mucus, use fluids and humidification for mucus clearance, and apply oxygen therapy as needed; inhaling deeply through the mouth is not recommended before coughing.
Step-by-step explanation:
The coughing technique that a nurse should include when teaching a client with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is to cough twice: the first cough to loosen mucus and the second to expel the secretions. This method helps clear the airways and can be beneficial for patients with COPD, who often have difficulty clearing mucus from their lungs. Additionally, the patient should be encouraged to drink plenty of fluids to help thin the mucus, making it easier to cough up, and to use a humidifier or steam to aid in mucus clearance. Medical professionals generally recommend against the use of cough suppressants for productive coughs such as those seen in COPD because it is important to clear the mucus from the lungs. Utilizing oxygen therapy as needed is also crucial for managing COPD symptoms, especially when oxygen levels are low. However, inhaling deeply through the mouth is not typically advised before a huff cough as this can lead to hyperventilation and exacerbate symptoms.