A nurse is caring for a client who reports a headache and has a history of a peptic ulcer. Which of the following medications should the nurse administer?

Choice A reason: Aspirin is contraindicated in peptic ulcer disease due to its antiplatelet and gastric irritant effects, risking bleeding or ulcer exacerbation. Acetaminophen is safer. Administering aspirin risks gastrointestinal hemorrhage, critical to avoid in ensuring safe pain management for clients with a history of peptic ulcers. Choice B reason: Ibuprofen, an NSAID, irritates the gastric mucosa, worsening peptic ulcers and increasing bleeding risk, making it unsuitable. Acetaminophen is preferred. Administering ibuprofen risks ulcer perforation or bleeding, critical to prevent in ensuring safe headache relief for clients with a peptic ulcer history. Choice C reason: Ketorolac, an NSAID, is contraindicated in peptic ulcer disease due to its potent gastric irritant effects, risking ulcer aggravation or bleeding. Acetaminophen is safe. Administering ketorolac risks severe gastrointestinal complications, critical to avoid in providing safe pain management for clients with peptic ulcer history. Choice D reason: Acetaminophen is safe for headache relief in peptic ulcer clients, lacking gastric irritant effects, avoiding risks of bleeding or ulcer worsening. Administering it ensures effective pain management, critical for client comfort, preventing gastrointestinal complications, and supporting safe care in clients with a history of peptic ulcers.