A nurse is preparing to educate a patient who has newly been prescribed sucralfate (Carafate) for the management of peptic ulcer disease (PUD). What is the mechanism of action for this medication?

A. Sucralfate does not neutralize gastric acid; antacids are responsible for neutralization. B. Sucralfate does not mimic endogenous prostaglandins. Medications like misoprostol act as prostaglandins to protect the stomach lining. C. Sucralfate does not block H2 receptors. Medications like cimetidine or ranitidine work through this mechanism to reduce acid production. D. Sucralfate creates a viscous, protective barrier that adheres to the ulcer site, shielding it from further damage by gastric acid, bile, and pepsin for up to 6 hours, thereby promoting healing.