A nurse is planning care for a client who has chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The client tells the nurse, “I can feel the congestion in my lungs.” Which of the following is an appropriate nursing action?

Choice A reason: Encouraging 2 to 3 L of water daily thins mucus in COPD, easing congestion and improving airway clearance. Adequate hydration supports respiratory function, addressing the client’s complaint, making this the appropriate nursing action. Choice B reason: A low-salt diet is relevant for heart failure, not COPD. It does not address lung congestion directly, as sodium restriction primarily manages fluid retention, making this choice incorrect for the client’s issue. Choice C reason: Delivering oxygen at 2 L/min may be used in COPD but is not the first action for congestion. Hydration directly addresses mucus, while oxygen targets hypoxemia, making this choice less relevant. Choice D reason: Frequent position changes aid mobility but do not directly relieve lung congestion. Hydration thins mucus, improving clearance, making this choice less effective than encouraging fluid intake for the client’s symptoms.