A nurse is providing teaching to a client who has stress incontinence. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include in the teaching? (Select all that apply.)
Explanation & Rationale
Rationale: A. "Perform Kegel exercises several times daily.": Kegel exercises strengthen pelvic floor muscles, improving bladder control and reducing stress incontinence episodes. Regular practice is essential for effectiveness. B. "Take prescribed diuretics no later than 2000.": Limiting evening diuretic use helps reduce nighttime incontinence but does not address stress incontinence, which is triggered by increased intra-abdominal pressure, not fluid timing. C. "Maintain a daily fluid intake of 1,000 to 1,200 mL/day.": Restricting fluids excessively can lead to concentrated urine and urinary tract irritation. Adequate hydration is important; fluid restriction is not recommended for stress incontinence. D. "Attempt to void every 2 hours.": Scheduled voiding helps prevent bladder overfilling, reducing leakage episodes and improving bladder control. This is an effective behavioral strategy. E. "Maintain optimal body weight for height.": Excess weight increases intra-abdominal pressure, which can worsen stress incontinence. Maintaining a healthy weight helps reduce strain on pelvic floor muscles.