PN Adult Medical Surgical Practice Exam

What should a nurse recommend to a client with COPD who experiences shortness of breath while eating?

1. "Limit the intake of protein in your diet."

2. "Use a bronchodilator 30 minutes before your meal."

3. "Drink beverages throughout your meal."

4. "Lie down for 1 hour after finishing a meal."

The correct answer is: "Use a bronchodilator 30 minutes before your meal."

Recommending the use of a bronchodilator 30 minutes before a meal is an important strategy for a client with COPD who experiences shortness of breath while eating. Inhaled bronchodilators work by relaxing and widening the airways, which can help improve airflow and decrease breathing difficulties. When shortness of breath occurs during meals, using a bronchodilator beforehand can enable the client to eat more comfortably and with less respiratory distress. This recommendation aligns with the common management strategies for COPD, which often include maintaining optimal pulmonary function to handle daily activities like eating. By timing the bronchodilator prior to meals, the nurse ensures that the client has maximum respiratory capacity during the meal, promoting better oxygenation and comfort. In contrast, limiting protein intake could negatively impact the client's nutritional status, as adequate protein is essential for overall health and body function. Drinking beverages continuously throughout meals can lead to a feeling of fullness, potentially reducing overall food intake and leading to inadequate nutrition. Lastly, lying down after a meal could exacerbate shortness of breath for some clients with COPD due to increased abdominal pressure on the diaphragm, making breathing more difficult. Hence, using a bronchodilator before meals is a proactive approach that directly addresses the client's problem.