A nurse is teaching a client about bladder retraining for incontinence. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include in the teaching?
Explanation & Rationale
A) "Practice pelvic-floor exercises regularly.": This instruction is essential for bladder retraining. Pelvic-floor exercises, such as Kegel exercises, strengthen the muscles that support the bladder and can help improve control over incontinence. B) "Wear a pair of disposable briefs at bedtime.": While using disposable briefs can provide comfort and protection, this approach does not contribute to bladder retraining. It may inadvertently allow the client to rely on them instead of focusing on improving bladder control. C) "Limit oral fluid intake to 1,000 milliliters per day.": Limiting fluid intake is generally not recommended, as it can lead to concentrated urine and potential bladder irritation. Adequate hydration is important for overall health and can help maintain normal bladder function. D) "Drink 8 ounces of citrus juice per day.": Citrus juices can irritate the bladder in some individuals, leading to increased urgency and frequency. It’s usually advisable to avoid such irritants during bladder retraining, making this instruction less appropriate.