A nurse is assisting a client who is 2 days postoperative following a total hip arthroplasty to walk to a chair. When the nurse offers to help the client ambulate, the client refuses to get out of bed. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

A. Instruct the assistive personnel (AP) to transfer the client to a chair: Rationale: This disregards the client’s autonomy and decision. The client is refusing, and forcing the transfer without addressing the reason for refusal is inappropriate. B. Acknowledge the client's wishes, but explain the importance of ambulation postoperatively: Rationale: This is therapeutic communication and respects the client’s autonomy while providing education. Ambulation is essential to prevent complications such as deep vein thrombosis, pneumonia, and constipation after surgery. C. Tell the client that if she does not get out of bed she will not receive any assistance with bathing: Rationale: This is coercive and unethical. It violates the principles of patient-centered care and autonomy. D. Ask for assistance from a physical therapist to help move the client out of bed: Rationale: Although PT may be involved in mobility, the nurse should first address the client’s refusal and educate them. This option bypasses a necessary therapeutic step.