Question

During discharge teaching, a client asks the nurse how the prescribed antacids relieve heart burn. The nurse’s response should be based on the knowledge that antacids work by A. decreasing the secretion of gastric acid. B. coating the stomach lining. C. thickening the mucus secreted by the stomach wall. D. neutralizing the acid present in the stomach.

Short answer

Antacids relieve heartburn by neutralizing the acid present in the stomach, which is correctly described by option D.

Step-by-step solution

Understand the Function of Antacids

Antacids are a type of medication that help to neutralize stomach acid. They do not decrease acid secretion, coat the stomach lining, or thicken the mucus secreted by the stomach wall directly. Instead, they work by neutralizing the acid that is already present in the stomach.

Review Options

Review each of the options given to determine which one correctly describes the action of antacids. Option A suggests a decrease in acid secretion, Option B implies a protective coat on the stomach lining, Option C indicates a thickening of the stomach mucus, and Option D implies neutralizing the stomach acid.

Identify the Correct Response

Based on the knowledge of antacids, the correct response is that which accurately describes their primary function. Antacids do not have an effect on the secretion, coating, or mucus thickness; their main action is to neutralize the acid that is present.

Key concepts

Nursing Pharmacology and Antacids

Understanding the pharmacological action of medications is crucial for nursing professionals, particularly when discussing antacids. Antacids are a fundamental component of gastrointestinal treatment regimens and their primary mechanism is to neutralize stomach acid, which can alleviate symptoms such as heartburn and indigestion. This neutralization process is a result of a chemical reaction, where antacids, often compounds like aluminum hydroxide, magnesium hydroxide, or calcium carbonate, interact with hydrochloric acid in the stomach to form water and a neutral salt.

From a pharmacological perspective, antacids differ significantly from other acid-reducing medications like proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or H2-receptor antagonists, which actually reduce the production of stomach acid. For nursing students or practicing nurses, it is vital to recognize this distinction, as it affects treatment approaches and considerations for patient care.

Moreover, proper pharmacological knowledge ensures that nurses can address any potential interactions between antacids and other medications a patient might be taking, such as the possibility for reduced absorption of certain drugs due to the altered pH in the stomach.

Patient Education on Antacid Use

Equally important to pharmacological knowledge is the ability of nurses to educate patients in a comprehensible manner. When discussing the use of antacids with patients, clear communication can empower them to manage their symptoms effectively. Nurses should emphasize that antacids should be taken when experiencing discomfort and that they provide temporary relief by neutralizing stomach acid.

Tips for Antacid Use:

• Antacids should be taken as directed on the label or by a healthcare provider.
• Patients should be informed about the potential for side effects, such as constipation or diarrhea depending on the type of antacid.
• They should be advised to avoid taking antacids simultaneously with other medications without consulting a healthcare provider.
• It's essential to highlight that if symptoms persist despite antacid use, further medical evaluation may be necessary.

By focusing on these education points, nurses can help patients make informed decisions about their symptom management and medication use.

Acid-Base Balance in the Stomach

Acid-base balance is a key concept in both pharmacology and patient care, especially when dealing with the gastrointestinal system. The stomach naturally contains hydrochloric acid, an essential component for digestion. However, an excess of this acid can lead to discomfort and conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Antacids play a role in temporarily restoring the balance of acidity within the stomach without altering the body's overall acid-base balance. This temporary shift in pH can provide symptomatic relief. Nurses need to understand the body's mechanisms for maintaining acid-base balance, such as the buffering system, to anticipate the effects of introducing an antacid and to manage patient expectations regarding the speed and duration of relief.

It's also important to consider dietary and lifestyle factors that could impact stomach acidity and educate patients about possible changes that could reduce their symptoms. Recommendations might include avoiding trigger foods, not eating close to bedtime, and elevating the head during sleep to prevent acid reflux.