A nurse is providing teaching to a client who has gastroesophageal reflux disease. Which of the following statements should the nurse include in the teaching?

A) Dyspepsia:
Dyspepsia, or indigestion, is a common symptom of peptic ulcer disease, causing discomfort in the upper abdomen. While it is uncomfortable and should be managed, it is not immediately life-threatening and does not require urgent intervention compared to other symptoms.

B) Nausea:
Nausea can be a distressing symptom associated with peptic ulcer disease, often resulting from irritation of the stomach lining. Although it can significantly impact the client’s well-being and appetite, it is not as critical as symptoms indicating active bleeding or more severe complications.

C) Hyperactive bowel sounds:
Hyperactive bowel sounds may be present in peptic ulcer disease due to increased gastrointestinal activity. This finding suggests heightened digestive activity but does not indicate an immediate life-threatening condition that would take precedence over signs of active bleeding.

D) Hematemesis:
Hematemesis, or vomiting blood, is a serious and potentially life-threatening symptom that indicates active gastrointestinal bleeding. This requires immediate medical attention to prevent significant blood loss, shock, and other complications. It is the priority finding because it poses the most immediate risk to the client’s health and stability.

A) Cimetidine: Cimetidine is an H2 receptor antagonist used to reduce stomach acid and treat conditions such as peptic ulcers and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). It is not used to manage metabolic acidosis.

B) Calcitonin: Calcitonin is used to regulate calcium levels and treat conditions like osteoporosis or hypercalcemia. It does not address metabolic acidosis and is not appropriate for this condition.

C) Sodium bicarbonate: Sodium bicarbonate is commonly used to treat metabolic acidosis. It works by neutralizing excess acid in the blood, thereby increasing the blood's pH and helping to correct the acid-base imbalance associated with metabolic acidosis.

D) Sodium chloride: Sodium chloride is a salt that can be used to manage fluid and electrolyte imbalances but does not correct metabolic acidosis. It is not suitable for treating the acid-base imbalance seen in metabolic acidosis.