A nurse is providing discharge teaching to an older adult client following a left total hip arthroplasty. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include in the teaching?

A. "Install a raised toilet seat in your bathroom." is correct. After a total hip arthroplasty, clients are at high risk for hip dislocation if the hip is flexed beyond 90 degrees or if certain movements like adduction or internal rotation occur. Using a raised toilet seat helps the client maintain proper hip alignment and prevents excessive hip flexion when sitting or standing, reducing the risk of dislocation. This is a key safety modification for activities of daily living in the home environment. B. "You can cross your legs at the ankles when sitting down." is incorrect because crossing the legs, even at the ankles, can lead to adduction or internal rotation of the hip joint. These movements increase the risk of prosthetic hip dislocation. Clients should be taught to keep the legs slightly apart and avoid crossing them for at least 6–8 weeks postoperatively, depending on provider instructions. C. "You should use an incentive spirometer every 8 hours." is incorrect because the frequency is insufficient for effective prevention of postoperative pulmonary complications such as atelectasis. Best practice recommends using the incentive spirometer every 1–2 hours while awake to encourage deep breathing and lung expansion, especially in older adults who are at increased risk for respiratory complications after surgery. D. "Clean the incision daily with hydrogen peroxide." is incorrect because hydrogen peroxide is cytotoxic to healing tissue and can delay wound healing. Proper wound care involves gentle cleansing with mild soap and water, keeping the incision dry, and following the surgeon’s instructions regarding dressing changes. Educating the client on appropriate wound care is crucial to prevent infection and promote optimal healing.