A nurse is reinforcing teaching about disease management with a client who has GERD. Which of the following statements should the nurse make?
Explanation & Rationale
A. "You should only drink 2 cups of coffee per day." While limiting coffee intake can be beneficial for some individuals with GERD, the recommendation should focus on overall caffeine intake rather than a specific amount. Caffeine can relax the lower esophageal sphincter and exacerbate symptoms, so some individuals may need to eliminate it entirely. B. "You should eat three large meals and two snacks per day." Eating large meals can increase intra-abdominal pressure and exacerbate GERD symptoms. Instead, clients should be encouraged to eat smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day to help minimize reflux. C. "You should lay down for 1 hour following a meal." Laying down after eating can increase the likelihood of reflux and heartburn. Clients should be advised to remain upright for at least 2 to 3 hours after meals to help prevent symptoms. D. "You should elevate the head of the bed while sleeping." Elevating the head of the bed is a recommended practice for clients with GERD. This position can help prevent nighttime reflux by allowing gravity to keep stomach acid from rising into the esophagus, thereby reducing symptoms and improving sleep quality.