A nurse is teaching a client who is obese and has obstructive sleep apnea how to decrease the number of nightly apneic episodes. Which of the following client statements indicates an understanding of the teaching?

Choice A reason: Sleeping pills relax airway muscles, worsening apnea episodes in obstructive sleep apnea. This statement indicates misunderstanding, as sedatives exacerbate the condition, making it incorrect for reducing episodes. Choice B reason: Avoiding back sleeping (supine position) may reduce episodes, as it minimizes airway collapse. While helpful, weight loss has a greater impact, making this less comprehensive than the correct choice. Choice C reason: Losing 50 pounds reduces neck fat, decreasing airway obstruction in obstructive sleep apnea. Weight loss is a primary intervention, and this statement shows understanding, making it the correct choice. Choice D reason: A humidifier improves comfort but does not address airway obstruction causing apnea. Weight loss directly reduces episodes, making humidifier use less effective and incorrect for this teaching.