What self-care instruction should be provided to a pregnant client to help manage fatigue?

Prioritizing rest and good nutrition is essential for managing fatigue during pregnancy. Fatigue is a common complaint among pregnant individuals, often resulting from physical and hormonal changes in the body. Encouraging rest allows the body to recover and recharge, which is crucial as pregnancy can be physically demanding. Good nutrition provides the necessary vitamins and minerals needed for both the mother's well-being and the development of the fetus. A balanced diet can positively affect energy levels and overall health.

In contrast, engaging in vigorous exercise regularly may lead to increased fatigue rather than alleviating it, especially if the body is already under stress from pregnancy. Increasing caffeine intake can lead to temporary alertness but may also cause negative side effects such as insomnia or increased heart rate. Avoiding naps throughout the day does not align with effective fatigue management; short naps can be beneficial for improving energy levels when needed. Thus, emphasizing rest and nutrition is the most beneficial self-care instruction for a pregnant client to cope with fatigue effectively.