A nurse is providing teaching to a client who is anxious about their mastectomy scheduled in 2 hr. Which of the following complementary therapies should the nurse recommend to the client?

A. Call the provider to discuss the client's preference with them and their family: While involving the provider and family is important, the first step should be to educate the client about their options for designating a decision-maker.

B. Explain to the client the process of designating another individual to make decisions for them: The nurse should first provide information about how the client can designate a trusted individual to make decisions for them, such as through a durable power of attorney for healthcare. This allows the client to make an informed decision.

C. Ask the client to discuss these preferences with their family first: The nurse should first empower the client by explaining the process of designating a decision-maker. It is crucial to respect the client’s autonomy in making this decision before involving family.

D. Ask the client if they would like their wishes documented in their health care records: Before documenting, the nurse should ensure the client understands the process of assigning a decision-maker. Documentation is important, but the client needs to understand their options first.

A. Stroking the lower abdomen: While this may sometimes stimulate the bladder, it is not the most effective technique for promoting urination. Techniques such as using warm water are more commonly recommended for stimulating urination.

B. Pouring warm water over the perineum: Pouring warm water over the perineum can help relax the pelvic muscles and stimulate the urge to urinate. This method is often used to assist with the initiation of urination, especially after catheter removal.

C. Performing Kegel exercises prior to urination: Kegel exercises strengthen the pelvic floor muscles and can improve urinary control over time, but they are not effective for immediately stimulating urination, especially in the postoperative period.

D. Leaning backward when sitting and attempting to urinate: Leaning backward may make it more difficult to urinate as it puts pressure on the bladder. The best position for urination is sitting upright with the feet flat on the floor, which allows relaxation of the pelvic muscles.