A client is diagnosed with a 3-cm abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). What would the nurse include in teaching as the best nonsurgical intervention to decrease the risk of rupture of an aneurysm and to slow the rate of enlargement?

A. Heparin and Coumadin therapy to decrease clotting: Anticoagulants are not used to prevent aneurysm rupture. While they prevent thromboembolic events, they do not reduce wall stress or slow aneurysm expansion and may increase the risk of bleeding if rupture occurs. B. Bedrest until there is shrinkage of the aneurysm: AAA does not shrink with bedrest, and prolonged immobility does not affect aneurysm size. Bedrest alone is not an effective nonsurgical intervention and may contribute to deconditioning or other complications. C. Intraarterial thrombolytic therapy: Thrombolytic therapy is indicated for dissolving blood clots, not for preventing aneurysm rupture or reducing aneurysm size. Its use could increase bleeding risk and is not a recommended intervention for AAA management. D. Maintenance of normal blood pressure: Controlling blood pressure reduces stress on the weakened aortic wall, decreasing the risk of rupture and slowing aneurysm enlargement. Lifestyle modifications, antihypertensive medications, and regular monitoring are key nonsurgical strategies for managing small AAAs.