What should the nurse anticipate teaching a patient with a new report of heartburn?

Choice A rationale

Twelve hours without voiding indicates potential acute urinary retention due to ureteral obstruction, risking hydronephrosis or kidney damage, which requires immediate attention to preserve renal function.

Choice B rationale

Hematuria is common with kidney stones and generally not urgent unless accompanied by clots causing retention or excessive bleeding causing hemodynamic instability.

Choice C rationale

Fever indicates infection but at 37.7°C, it is considered low-grade and less urgent compared to obstruction. Normal body temperature is typically 36.1-37.2°C.

Choice D rationale

Cloudy urine suggests infection but lacks the immediacy of urinary retention or acute obstruction, which are potentially life-threatening.

Choice A rationale

Low urine output could be due to dehydration, medication effects, or stress. While it warrants further assessment, it is not typically associated with immediate life-threatening complications in the context of PUD.

Choice B rationale

Vomiting after a meal can occur in PUD due to delayed gastric emptying or irritation. However, it does not immediately indicate a complication requiring urgent follow-up unless accompanied by other symptoms such as severe pain or hematemesis.

Choice C rationale

Blood in the stool may indicate gastrointestinal bleeding, a serious complication of PUD. This finding requires immediate evaluation to determine the source and extent of bleeding, as it can lead to hypovolemic shock if untreated.

Choice D rationale

Abdominal discomfort is common in PUD due to gastric irritation or acid-related issues. While it requires management, it does not typically signal an urgent complication unless associated with other alarming symptoms.