A nurse in a provider's office is caring for a client who has a medical history of rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis, and a family history of heart disease and arthritis. The client has a 60-year smoking history and denies alcohol or other substance use. They are positive for Helicobacter pylori and are on medication for peptic ulcer disease (PUD). Which three findings from the client's medical record increase their risk for peptic ulcer disease?

Choice A rationale
Percussion between the iliac crest and ribs at the midaxillary line is not the standard method for assessing flank tenderness associated with pyelonephritis. This technique may not elicit the characteristic pain of kidney inflammation.

Choice B rationale
Pushing fingers upward into the two lowest intercostal spaces is not a specific test for flank tenderness and may not accurately assess for pyelonephritis. This action is more related to assessing the integrity of the rib cage and intercostal muscles.

Choice C rationale
Palpating along both sides of the lumbar vertebral column is not the correct method for assessing flank tenderness due to pyelonephritis. This approach is more suited for assessing the musculoskeletal structure rather than the kidneys.

Choice D rationale
Striking a flat hand over the costovertebral angle is the correct method for assessing flank tenderness in cases of suspected pyelonephritis. This technique, known as costovertebral angle tenderness, elicits pain when the kidneys are inflamed, which is a common sign of pyelonephritis.

Choice A rationale
Storing the medication at room temperature is a practical instruction but does not explain the therapeutic purpose of the medication, which is essential for patient understanding.

Choice B rationale
Epoetin alfa (Procrit) is used to treat anemia associated with chronic kidney disease by supplementing erythropoietin, a hormone the damaged kidneys can no longer produce effectively. This is the most informative statement for the patient's understanding of the medication's purpose.

Choice C rationale
While epoetin alfa can improve anemia and potentially improve quality of life, it does not directly delay the need for dialysis, which is determined by overall kidney function and not solely by the presence of anemia.

Choice D rationale
Epoetin alfa does not have a role in preventing AV fistula clotting. It is specifically used to stimulate red blood cell production and has no direct effect on clotting mechanisms.