A nurse is caring for a client who is prescribed bedrest. The plan of care indicates that the client should perform isometric exercises every 2 hr. Which of the following actions should the nurse take as directed by the plan of care?

A. Have the client move each limb independently through its complete range of motion: This describes active range of motion exercises, which involve joint mobility but do not focus on muscle strengthening through tension as isometric exercises do. B. Ask the client to move her arms and legs while applying slight resistance: This describes isotonic resistance exercises, where movement occurs against an external force. Isometric exercises, in contrast, involve no visible joint movement. C. Instruct the client to tighten muscle groups for a short period, and then relax: Isometric exercises involve contracting muscles without moving the associated joint. This action maintains muscle strength and circulation during bedrest, reducing the risk of deconditioning. D. Move the client's limbs through their complete range of motion: This describes passive range of motion, which maintains joint flexibility but does not engage the client’s muscles actively. It does not provide the benefits of isometric strengthening.