Question

The nurse is teaching a client with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) about the benefits of an exercise regimen. Which information should the nurse include ___________.

1) Dyspnea and fatigue may improve with exercise.
2) An exercise regimen can improve the ability to perform activities of daily living (ADLs).
3) Exercise can prevent the condition from worsening.
4) Inhale and exhale rapidly to maintain oxygenation while exercising.
5) Regular exercise improves exercise tolerance and muscle strength.

Answer 1

When teaching a client with COPD about exercise benefits, the nurse should emphasize improvements in dyspnea and fatigue, better performance of ADLs, prevention of condition worsening, the importance of controlled breathing during exercise, and the overall enhancement of exercise tolerance and muscle strength.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should include several key points when teaching a client with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) about the benefits of an exercise regimen:

1. Dyspnea and fatigue may improve with exercise.
2. An exercise regimen can improve the ability to perform activities of daily living (ADLs).
3. Exercise can prevent the condition from worsening. While it cannot cure COPD, it can help manage symptoms and improve lung function up to a certain extent.
4. Inhaling and exhaling should be controlled during exercise; it is not advisable to inhale and exhale rapidly as it may lead to hyperventilation and worsen the respiratory condition.
5. Regular exercise improves exercise tolerance and muscle strength, which are vital components of pulmonary rehabilitation.

It's also important to note that while regular exercise provides numerous health benefits, including improved cardiovascular health and reduced risk of other diseases, all exercises should be done under medical guidance and tailored to the individual's capabilities.