When teaching a patient about deep breathing exercises, which technique should be emphasized for abdominal support?

The emphasis on placing a pillow over the incision during deep breathing exercises is particularly important for providing support and comfort to the patient. This technique can help reduce pain and discomfort when the patient breathes deeply, especially if they have undergone surgery or have a significant injury in the abdominal area. The pillow provides a sensation of stability, which can encourage the patient to engage more fully in deep breathing exercises without fear of exacerbating pain or discomfort.

In addition, using a pillow can help promote proper alignment and positioning, allowing for optimal lung expansion. It can also serve as a reminder to the patient to engage their abdominal muscles gently during the exercise, which is beneficial for respiratory function and overall healing.

The other options do not focus on providing the necessary physical support and comfort that the patient needs during deep breathing, which is crucial for effective practice and pain management. For example, using a weight could lead to unnecessary strain, holding hands above their head does not specifically enhance abdominal support, and leaning forward might not appropriately facilitate deep breaths while ensuring comfort.