A nurse is caring for a client who has COPD and is 5 kg (11 lb) below her ideal body weight. The client experiences shortness of breath when eating. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Rationale: A. Administer a bronchodilator following meals: Bronchodilators should be administered before meals, not after, to help relieve shortness of breath and improve the client’s ability to eat without fatigue or dyspnea. Giving them afterward does not assist with eating difficulties. B. Limit the client's food consumption between meals: Restricting food intake between meals would reduce overall caloric intake, which is counterproductive for a client who is underweight and experiencing nutritional deficits due to COPD. Frequent small meals are usually recommended. C. Arrange for a low-protein diet: Clients with COPD who are underweight often need adequate protein to maintain muscle mass and respiratory function. A low-protein diet could worsen malnutrition and impair recovery. D. Request non-gas-forming foods from the dietary department: Non-gas-forming foods reduce bloating and abdominal discomfort, which can make eating easier for clients with COPD who experience dyspnea. This intervention supports improved caloric intake and minimizes respiratory compromise during meals.