What lifestyle change should a nurse advocate for a client with heart failure?

Engaging in regular exercise, as tolerated, is a vital lifestyle change for clients with heart failure. Exercise can improve a client’s overall cardiovascular health and enhance physical endurance, which can help manage symptoms associated with heart failure. Physical activity promotes better circulation, helps in maintaining a healthy weight, and can improve overall well-being. It is essential for the nurse to advocate for a tailored exercise plan that takes into account the client's individual limits and health status, ensuring that activities are safe and beneficial.

Other options suggest modifications that are not aligned with the best practices for managing heart failure. For instance, increasing fluid intake can exacerbate symptoms by causing fluid overload, while limiting protein intake may not be necessary and could lead to malnutrition. Reducing caloric consumption to minimal levels can impair energy levels and affect overall health negatively, especially since clients need to maintain adequate nutrition to support their health condition.