What should the nurse advise a client who is experiencing lower back pain during pregnancy?

Advising a client to perform static exercises to strengthen abdominal muscles is a sound recommendation for managing lower back pain during pregnancy. Strengthening the abdominal muscles can provide better support for the growing uterus, improve posture, and alleviate some of the strain on the lower back. During pregnancy, the body undergoes significant changes, including weight gain and the shift in the center of gravity, which can contribute to discomfort in the back. Engaging in gentle exercises tailored to strengthen the core can help stabilize the pelvis and spine, ultimately leading to reduced pain.

In contrast, while medications might provide temporary relief, they aren't typically recommended without medical consultation due to potential risks to the fetus. Continuously resting and avoiding movement could lead to weakened muscles and exacerbate pain over time rather than provide a long-term solution. Seeking immediate physical therapy could be beneficial for some, but it's generally more effective to start with home-based exercises unless the pain is severe or persistent. Thus, guiding clients toward safe exercises is key to managing pregnancy-related back pain effectively.