A nurse is teaching a client who has fibromyalgia about self-care strategies for managing the disorder. Which of the following information should the nurse include in the teaching?

Choice A reason : Regular exercise, as tolerated and recommended by a healthcare provider, is beneficial for heart failure patients as it can improve cardiovascular health and overall well-being⁵.

Choice B reason : Taking naproxen sodium for generalized discomfort is not recommended for heart failure patients as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can worsen heart failure by causing fluid retention and increasing blood pressure⁵.

Choice C reason : Taking diuretics early in the morning is advised to avoid nocturia; however, taking them before bedtime is not recommended for the same reason, as it can disrupt sleep due to the need for frequent urination⁵.

Choice D reason : Patients should be instructed to notify their healthcare provider of a weight gain of 0.5 kg (1 lb) in a week as it may indicate fluid retention, which is a common issue in heart failure⁵.

Choice A reason : Reducing stimuli is crucial for a patient emerging from a coma, especially after a traumatic brain injury (TBI). Excessive sensory input can overwhelm the patient's already compromised neurological state. The goal is to provide a calm and controlled environment to prevent overstimulation, which can lead to increased intracranial pressure (ICP), agitation, and delayed recovery. Interventions may include minimizing noise, dimming lights, and limiting the number of visitors. It's important to tailor the level of stimuli to the individual patient's response and recovery stage.

Choice B reason : Darkening the room can be part of reducing stimuli, but it is not the sole intervention needed. While a darker environment may help some patients rest, it is not universally applicable and should be considered as one aspect of an overall strategy to reduce stimuli. The nurse must assess the patient's individual needs and responses to determine if darkening the room is beneficial.

Choice C reason : The application of restraints is generally considered a last resort due to the potential for physical and psychological harm. Restraints can increase agitation and disorientation, potentially leading to self-injury or interference with medical devices. The use of restraints requires careful consideration, adherence to protocols, and often legal documentation. Non-pharmacological interventions and environmental modifications should be attempted first to manage restlessness.

Choice D reason : The administration of opioids is not typically indicated solely for restlessness in patients emerging from a coma. Opioids can depress the central nervous system, potentially masking neurological assessments and delaying recovery. They are primarily used for pain management. If restlessness is due to pain, then appropriate analgesia, including opioids, may be considered, but the underlying cause of restlessness should be thoroughly assessed and treated.