A nurse is preparing to administer a histamine-2 receptor antagonist (H2 blocker) to a client. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

C) Correct. Sucralfate (Carafate) forms a protective barrier over the ulcer, allowing it to heal. However, it can interact with antacids, reducing its effectiveness. Therefore, the client should avoid taking antacids within 30 minutes before or after sucralfate administration.

A) Incorrect. Sucralfate should be taken on an empty stomach, but this does not necessarily mean it needs to be taken in the morning before breakfast.

B) Incorrect. Sucralfate should be swallowed whole without chewing. Chewing the medication is not necessary and may interfere with its effectiveness.

D) Incorrect. Sucralfate can be taken multiple times a day, depending on the healthcare provider's instructions. It does not necessarily need to be taken at bedtime.

D) Correct. H2 blockers, such as ranitidine or famotidine, are usually administered orally and do not require shaking. However, the nurse should monitor the client for signs of anaphylaxis, such as rash, itching, difficulty breathing, or swelling, as rare but serious allergic reactions can occur. Prompt recognition and intervention are essential in such cases.

A) Incorrect. H2 blockers can be taken with or without food, depending on the client's preference or specific instructions from the healthcare provider.

B) Incorrect. H2 blockers do not require shaking before administration.

C) Incorrect. H2 blockers are typically administered orally and are not given intravenously unless there are specific indications and healthcare provider orders.