What nursing intervention should be implemented for a client with a cerebral aneurysm?

The recommended intervention for a client with a cerebral aneurysm is to encourage exhaling through the mouth during defecation. This technique helps reduce the risk of increased intracranial pressure (ICP), which is crucial for a patient with such a condition. When a person exhales through the mouth, it can prevent the Valsalva maneuver—a process that occurs when you bear down and hold your breath while exerting effort. This maneuver can significantly elevate ICP and pose a risk to individuals with a cerebral aneurysm.

In contrast, encouraging exhaling through the nose during defecation (as suggested in another option) is less desirable because it may inadvertently lead to holding the breath, which can increase ICP. Engaging in heavy lifting or discouraging all forms of physical activity without considering individual capabilities may also neglect the balance of promoting safety and mobility based on the patient's condition. Therefore, guiding the patient to exhale through the mouth during defecation is a safer practice that protects against potential complications related to elevated intracranial pressure.