A client shares with the nurse concerns of a possible stomach ulcer. The client is experiencing heartburn and a dull gnawing pain that is relieved with eating. Which is the best response by the nurse?

Rationale: A. Encourage the client to obtain a complete physical exam, since these symptoms are consistent with an ulcer: The client’s symptoms are typical of a duodenal ulcer. A full evaluation allows for appropriate diagnosis and treatment without causing alarm. B. Advise the client that he needs to seek immediate medical evaluation and treatment of these symptoms: Immediate evaluation is not warranted unless the client has signs of bleeding, perforation, or severe distress. A timely but routine follow-up is appropriate for stable symptoms. C. Assure the client that his symptoms may only reflect reflux, since ulcer pain is not relieved with food: Duodenal ulcer pain is classically relieved by eating, while gastric ulcer pain may worsen with food. Dismissing the symptoms as reflux could delay interventions. D. Instruct the client that these mild symptoms can generally be controlled with changes in his diet: While diet can influence ulcer symptoms, assuming dietary change alone is sufficient may delay proper medical evaluation and necessary pharmacologic treatment.