A nurse is caring for a client who is scheduled for surgical repair of a femur fracture and has a prescription for lorazepam preoperatively. Which of the following statements made by the client should indicate to the nurse that the medication has been effective?

(A) "I’ll breathe deeply and cough every 4 hours."
Deep breathing and coughing exercises should be done more frequently, typically every 1-2 hours while awake, to help prevent respiratory complications such as atelectasis and pneumonia.

(B) "I’ll splint my incision with a pillow to cough."
This statement indicates an understanding of the instructions. Splinting the incision with a pillow helps support the surgical site, reduces pain, and makes coughing more effective and less uncomfortable. This technique is important for clients to use to help clear secretions from the lungs postoperatively.

(C) "I’ll start to use the incentive spirometer when I can get out of bed."
The use of an incentive spirometer should begin as soon as possible, usually while the client is still in bed, to encourage deep breathing and prevent postoperative respiratory complications. It should not be delayed until the client can get out of bed.

(D) "I’ll lie flat in bed to cough and deep breathe."
Lying flat is not the optimal position for deep breathing and coughing exercises, as it can make it more difficult to fully expand the lungs. The client should be positioned with the head of the bed elevated or sitting up to facilitate better lung expansion and more effective coughing.

A. Verify that the client's valuables have been secured:

While securing the client's valuables is important for their safety and security during hospitalization, it does not directly address the prevention of postoperative complications.
B. Discuss a discharge date with the client:

Discussing a discharge date is part of discharge planning but does not directly address the prevention of postoperative complications.
C. Inform the client about the need for sequential compression devices:

Sequential compression devices (SCDs) are mechanical devices that help prevent venous stasis and deep vein thrombosis (DVT) by promoting circulation in the lower extremities. They are commonly used in surgical patients to reduce the risk of blood clots and related complications.
D. Review the facility's visitation policy with the client and family:

Reviewing the facility's visitation policy is important for ensuring that the client and family understand the rules and regulations regarding visitors. While visitor policies contribute to the overall well-being of the client during their hospital stay, they do not directly address the prevention of postoperative complications like the use of sequential compression devices does.