A nurse is collecting data for a client who has COPD. The nurse should expect the client's chest to be which of the following shapes?

A. Encourage the client to drink 8 glasses of water a day.

This is the correct choice. Clients with COPD often have thickened respiratory secretions due to chronic inflammation and mucus production. Adequate hydration helps to keep these secretions thin, making them easier to cough up and clear from the airways. Encouraging the client to drink plenty of fluids, such as water, can assist in maintaining optimal hydration levels and promoting effective airway clearance.

B. Instruct the client to cough every 4 hours.

Instructing the client to cough on a scheduled basis, such as every 4 hours, is not appropriate for managing COPD. While coughing is important for clearing respiratory secretions, the frequency of coughing should be based on the client's individual needs and symptoms. Some clients with COPD may need to cough more frequently, while others may need to cough less often. It's important to encourage the client to cough as needed to clear secretions rather than on a predetermined schedule.

C. Provide the client with a low-protein diet.

Providing the client with a low-protein diet is not recommended for managing COPD. Adequate protein intake is important for maintaining muscle strength, including respiratory muscles, and supporting overall health. Clients with COPD may have increased energy needs due to the increased work of breathing and should be encouraged to consume a balanced diet that includes adequate protein.

D. Advise the client to lie down after eating.

Advising the client to lie down after eating is not recommended for managing COPD. Lying down after eating can increase pressure on the diaphragm and make breathing more difficult, especially for individuals with compromised lung function. It's generally recommended for individuals with COPD to remain in an upright position after eating to minimize respiratory discomfort and reduce the risk of aspiration.

A. "You should inhale through your nose and exhale through your mouth during purse-lipped breathing."

Pursed-lip breathing is a breathing technique commonly used by individuals with COPD to help improve breathing efficiency and manage dyspnea (shortness of breath). During purse-lip breathing, the individual inhales slowly through the nose and exhales slowly and gently through pursed lips, creating a slight resistance to the airflow. This technique helps to keep the airways open longer during exhalation, reduces air trapping, and improves oxygenation.

B. "Your inspiration should be longer than expiration during purse-lipped breathing."

Pursed-lip breathing typically involves making both the inspiration and expiration longer than usual. The focus is on slowing down the breathing rate and extending the exhalation phase to promote better gas exchange and reduce respiratory effort.

C. "You should cough forcefully during exhalation when you are purse-lipped breathing."

Pursed-lip breathing is a gentle breathing technique used to promote relaxation and control of breathing. Forceful coughing during exhalation is not part of purse-lip breathing and may not be appropriate, especially for individuals with COPD who are prone to airway irritation and bronchospasm.

D. "You should be flat on your back when you perform purse-lipped breathing."

The position for performing purse-lip breathing is not specific to lying flat on the back. Individuals can perform purse-lip breathing in various positions that are comfortable and allow for effective breathing, such as sitting upright or leaning slightly forward. The key is to find a position that facilitates relaxation and optimal lung expansion.