A nurse is assisting with the care of a client who is postoperative following a pneumonectomy. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

A. Monitor respiratory status every 8 hr: After a pneumonectomy, frequent respiratory assessment is essential, often every 1–2 hours initially. Monitoring only every 8 hours is inadequate and could delay detection of complications such as respiratory distress or infection. B. Elevate the head of the bed to a 15° angle: The head of the bed should typically be elevated 30–45° to facilitate lung expansion, improve ventilation, and decrease the risk of aspiration. A 15° angle is insufficient for optimal respiratory function postoperatively. C. Position the client on the nonoperative side: After a pneumonectomy, the client should be positioned on the operative side to allow the remaining lung to expand properly and reduce mediastinal shift. Lying on the nonoperative side can compress the remaining lung and impair gas exchange. D. Encourage the client to splint the incision when coughing: Splinting the incision supports the surgical site, reduces pain, and allows the client to cough effectively. Effective coughing helps clear secretions and prevent atelectasis and pneumonia.