A postpartum client who delivered via cesarean section expresses discomfort when ambulating and performing activities of daily living. What nursing intervention should be prioritized to promote optimal recovery?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Encouraging early ambulation and progressive activity as tolerated is the most appropriate nursing intervention to promote optimal recovery for a postpartum client who delivered via cesarean section. Early ambulation helps prevent complications such as blood clots, pneumonia, and constipation. It also promotes circulation and facilitates healing by reducing the risk of postoperative complications. Progressive activity helps the client regain strength, mobility, and independence, which are essential for a speedy recovery. Restoring normal movement will also help decrease discomfort and improve the client's overall well-being. In contrast, restricting movement may lead to complications and delayed recovery. Administering oral analgesics as needed is important for pain management, but promoting early ambulation is essential for optimal recovery. Heat packs should not be applied to the incision site as they can increase the risk of infection and interfere with proper wound healing.