A nurse is providing discharge teaching to a new parent about breastfeeding her infant. Which of the following statements should the nurse make?

Rationale:
A. "Avoid exercising in warm places.": Heat can temporarily worsen symptoms of multiple sclerosis, such as fatigue, weakness, and spasticity, due to slowed nerve conduction. Clients should exercise in cool environments or use cooling techniques to prevent symptom exacerbation.

B. "Walk with your feet close together.": Walking with feet close together can increase the risk of imbalance and falls in clients with MS, who often have gait disturbances. Maintaining a wider stance or using assistive devices improves stability and safety during ambulation.

C. "Decrease your daily fluid intake.": Fluid restriction is not recommended for MS and can lead to dehydration and urinary tract complications. Adequate hydration helps maintain bladder function and overall health.

D. "Apply an ice pack to spastic muscles.": Cold therapy does not effectively relieve muscle spasticity in MS; instead, heat may temporarily reduce muscle stiffness. Ice packs are more appropriate for acute inflammation or injury rather than chronic spasticity.

Rationale:
A. Obtain a prescription to refer the client to physical therapy: A referral to physical therapy is appropriate because therapists can design individualized exercises to improve balance, coordination, and strength. This intervention promotes safe mobility, enhances independence, and reduces fall risk for clients with post-stroke weakness.

B. Instruct the client to wear sandals when ambulating: Sandals do not provide adequate foot support or traction and increase the risk of tripping or falling. Clients with right-sided weakness should wear well-fitting, non-skid shoes to ensure safety and stability during ambulation.

C. Encourage the client to dim the lights in hallways: Poor lighting impairs visibility and increases the risk of falls, especially for clients with weakness or gait instability. Adequate illumination in hallways and pathways is essential for safety during ambulation.

D. Instruct the client to place throw rugs on bathroom floors: Throw rugs are a major fall hazard due to their tendency to slip or bunch up. The nurse should advise removing rugs or securing them with non-slip backing to create a safe, stable walking environment.