A client with chronic obstructive lung disease has an order for chest physiotherapy. When performing chest percussion, the nurse should strike the client's back with: A. The palms of the hands B. The side of the hands C. Cupped hands D. A loosely clenched fist

Chest percussion is a technique used in chest physiotherapy to help loosen and mobilize secretions in a patient's airway, making it easier for them to cough up mucus and clear their airway. It is important to perform chest percussion in the correct manner to maximize its effectiveness and minimize the risk of injury to the patient.

Let's go through each of the given options and discuss whether or not they would be an appropriate method for performing chest percussion on a client with chronic obstructive lung disease: A. The palms of the hands: Using the flat surface of the palms may not produce the desired cupping effect to direct force onto the patient's back and effectively loosen secretions. Additionally, it may cause unnecessary discomfort to the patient. B. The side of the hands: Using the side of the hands would not provide the right amount of force distribution needed to effectively perform chest percussion. C. Cupped hands: This method allows for even distribution of force on the patient's back and creates a hollow sound, which aids in loosening secretions. It also reduces the risk of injury and discomfort to the patient. This is the most appropriate option. D. A loosely clenched fist: Using a clenched fist may cause excessive force and discomfort to the patient, making it less than ideal for chest percussion.

Based on our evaluation of the given options, option C. Cupped hands is the most appropriate method for performing chest percussion on a client with chronic obstructive lung disease. This technique allows for the optimal force distribution and the cupping effect needed to effectively loosen secretions while minimizing the risk of injury and discomfort to the patient.