A nurse is updating a postoperative client's plan of care. The nurse should include which of the following as the priority interventions?

The correct answer is B: Instruct the client to use the incentive spirometer. This is the priority intervention because postoperative clients are at risk for developing atelectasis due to decreased lung expansion. Using the incentive spirometer helps to prevent respiratory complications by promoting deep breathing and improving lung function. Repositioning the client frequently (choice A) is important for preventing pressure ulcers but is not the priority in this case. Ensuring the client consumes adequate fluids (choice C) is essential for hydration but does not address the respiratory issues postoperatively. Increasing the amount of time the client spends out of bed each day (choice D) is beneficial for mobility but does not directly address the respiratory concerns.