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?
"I should elevate the head of the bed."
"I will sleep on my stomach with my head flat."
"I will have a snack 1 hour before going to bed."
"I can have 6 ounces of alcohol before bed, to help me sleep."
The Correct Answer is A
Elevating the head of the bed can help reduce the symptoms of GERD during sleep. By elevating the head, gravity can help prevent stomach acid from flowing back into the esophagus, reducing the occurrence of reflux.
The other statements do not demonstrate an understanding of the teaching: "I will sleep on my stomach with my head flat": Sleeping on the stomach can actually worsen the symptoms of GERD as it can increase the likelihood of stomach acid flowing back into the esophagus. It is generally recommended to sleep on the left side or back to minimize reflux.
"I will have a snack 1 hour before going to bed": Consuming a snack close to bedtime can increase the likelihood of reflux during sleep. It is generally recommended to avoid eating at least 2 to 3 hours before lying down to minimize reflux symptoms.
"I can have 6 ounces of alcohol before bed, to help me sleep": Alcohol can relax the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) and increase the risk of reflux. It is best to avoid alcohol before bedtime, especially for individuals with GERD.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a condition characterized by the backflow of stomach acid into the esophagus, causing symptoms such as heartburn. Orange juice is highly acidic, and consuming acidic foods and beverages can exacerbate the symptoms of GERD. The acidic nature of orange juice can irritate the esophagus and contribute to increased acid reflux, leading to heartburn.
Sleeping on a large wedge-style pillow can actually help alleviate symptoms of GERD by elevating the head and upper body, reducing the likelihood of acid reflux during sleep.
Eating dinner early in the evening is generally recommended for individuals with GERD as it allows sufficient time for digestion before lying down. This can help prevent acid reflux during sleep.
Consuming low-fat meats is also a favorable choice for individuals with GERD as fatty foods can relax the lower esophageal sphincter, allowing stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus. However, the options provided do not include any fatty foods, so it is not the primary contributing factor to the client's heartburn in this case.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Cimetidine is a medication known as a histamine H2 receptor antagonist, commonly used in the treatment of peptic ulcer disease. It works by reducing the production of stomach acid. When teaching a client about cimetidine, it is important to inform them about the timing of taking other medications, specifically antacids.
Antacids, which are used to neutralize stomach acid, can interfere with the absorption of cimetidine if taken simultaneously. Therefore, it is generally recommended to wait at least 1 hour after taking cimetidine before taking an antacid. This allows sufficient time for the cimetidine to be absorbed and start working effectively before neutralizing stomach acid with an antacid.
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