A nurse is contributing to the plan of care for a client who is 72 hr postoperative following an above-the-knee amputation. Which of the following actions should the nurse recommend?

Choice A reason: This is the correct information, because pursed-lip breathing can help improve gas exchange by creating positive pressure in the airways, preventing air trapping and alveolar collapse, and increasing the exhalation time.

Choice B reason: This is an incorrect information, because limiting fluid intake to 1,500 ml per day can cause dehydration and thickening of the respiratory secretions, which can impair gas exchange and increase the risk of infection.

Choice C reason: This is an incorrect information, because practicing chest breathing each day can worsen gas exchange by increasing the use of accessory muscles, decreasing the diaphragmatic excursion, and reducing the lung expansion.

Choice D reason: This is an incorrect information, because wearing home oxygen to maintain an SpO2 of at least 94% can be harmful for a client who has emphysema, as it can suppress the hypoxic drive and cause carbon dioxide retention, which can lead to respiratory acidosis and coma. The client who has emphysema should wear home oxygen to maintain an SpO2 of 88% to 92%, or as prescribed by the provider.

Choice A reason: This is the best intervention, because offering the client a bedpan every 2 hr can help prevent urinary retention, bladder distension, and infection, which can worsen the incontinence. It can also help maintain the client's dignity and comfort, and promote bladder retraining.

Choice B reason: This is an incorrect intervention, because limiting the client's daily fluid intake can cause dehydration, constipation, and urinary tract infection, which can aggravate the incontinence. The client should drink adequate fluids, unless the provider instructs otherwise.

Choice C reason: This is an incorrect intervention, because requesting a prescription for an indwelling urinary catheter is not recommended for a client who has occasional urinary incontinence. An indwelling urinary catheter can increase the risk of infection, trauma, and obstruction, and interfere with the bladder function. The nurse should use other methods of bladder management, such as intermittent catheterization, external catheter, or incontinence pads.

Choice D reason: This is an incorrect intervention, because ambulating the client to the bathroom every 30 min can be unrealistic, exhausting, and unsafe for a client who has hemiplegia, or paralysis of one side of the body, due to a stroke. The client may not be able to walk or transfer without assistance, and may fall or injure themselves. The nurse should assess the client's mobility and ability to use the bathroom, and provide appropriate aids and support.