The practical nurse (PN) is explaining the use of an incentive spirometer to a postoperative client. The client asks the PN to administer an analgesic before using the spirometer. How should the PN respond?

A. Encouraging the client to use the spirometer before analgesia can increase discomfort and reduce effort, leading to ineffective deep breathing. Pain control should be optimized first to promote participation and proper technique. B. Delaying instruction for several hours postpones an important postoperative intervention that helps prevent complications such as atelectasis. Early and consistent use of the spirometer is essential for optimal recovery. C. Administering a PRN analgesic first improves comfort, allowing the client to take deeper breaths and use the spirometer effectively. This approach supports both pain management and respiratory function, making it the best choice. D. Reassuring the client that the spirometer is not painful dismisses the client’s concern and does not address the need for pain control. Postoperative clients often experience pain with deep breathing, so appropriate analgesia is necessary.