A client with peptic ulcer disease is prescribed misoprostol. Which of the following information should the nurse include in the client's medication education?

Choice A reason:

Hypertension and increased heart rate are not early signs of gastrointestinal bleeding. In fact, hypotension and tachycardia are more common signs of significant blood loss.

Choice B reason:

Abdominal distention and bloating are not typical early signs of gastrointestinal bleeding. These symptoms may occur due to other gastrointestinal issues but are not specific to bleeding.

Choice C reason:

This statement is correct. Melena, or black, tarry stools, is a classic sign of upper gastrointestinal bleeding and indicates the presence of partially digested blood in the stool.

Choice D reason:

Hyperactive bowel sounds are not early signs of gastrointestinal bleeding. Bowel sounds may be hyperactive or hypoactive depending on the severity of the bleeding and associated factors.

Choice A reason:

Administering antacids one hour before meals would be less effective in providing pain relief during mealtime when stomach acid production is increased.

Choice B reason:

This statement is correct. Administering antacids with meals helps neutralize stomach acid during the digestion process and provides pain relief for clients with peptic ulcer disease.

Choice C reason:

Administering antacids two hours after meals may not effectively reduce pain during the mealtime when stomach acid production is at its peak.

Choice D reason:

Administering antacids at bedtime may help with overnight acid reduction, but it may not adequately address pain during meals when acid production is higher.