A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a client who has gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) about minimizing the effects of reflux during sleep. Which of the following client statements indicates an understanding of the teaching?

The purpose of the stool guaiac test, also known as the fecal occult blood test (FOBT), is to identify the presence of hidden or occult blood in the stool. This test is commonly performed to screen for gastrointestinal bleeding, which can indicate various conditions such as colorectal cancer, ulcers, polyps, or other sources of bleeding in the digestive tract.

The other options mentioned are not specifically detected by the stool guaiac test:

Parasites: The stool guaiac test does not directly detect parasites in the feces. Parasite testing requires a different type of analysis, such as microscopic examination or specialized laboratory tests.

Bacteria: The stool guaiac test does not specifically detect bacteria in the feces. If a bacterial infection is suspected, other diagnostic tests such as stool culture or polymerase chain reaction (PCR) may be ordered.

Fat: The stool guaiac test is not designed to detect fat in the feces. If there is a concern about fat malabsorption, other tests such as fecal fat analysis or Sudan stain may be used.

Sucralfate is a medication used to treat peptic ulcers by forming a protective coating on the stomach lining. It should be taken on an empty stomach, as food can interfere with its absorption and effectiveness. One hour before breakfast and the evening meal is the correct timing for administering sucralfate, allowing for an empty stomach before meals.

At the time the client takes a proton pump inhibitor: Proton pump inhibitors are a different class of medications used to reduce stomach acid production. It is recommended to administer sucralfate separately, as it works differently and has different administration requirements.

Thirty minutes after breakfast and the evening meal: Administering sucralfate after meals is not ideal, as it may not provide the desired therapeutic effect on an empty stomach.

The time the client takes an antacid: Antacids are also different from sucralfate, and they can interfere with its absorption. It is generally recommended to administer sucralfate separately from antacids.