A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a client who has GERD and a prescription for pantoprazole. Which of the following statements indicates an understanding of the teaching?
Explanation & Rationale
A. "I can take antacids at the same time as this medication.” This is generally incorrect. While antacids can provide quick relief, they can interfere with the absorption of pantoprazole. It's usually recommended to separate antacid use from pantoprazole by at least a couple of hours. B. "I will need to remain upright for 1 hour after taking the medication.” This is incorrect. This is a common instruction for general GERD management, but not specifically related to taking the pantoprazole medication itself. C. "I have to take this medication on an empty stomach.” This is generally correct. PPIs like pantoprazole work best when taken before meals, typically 30-60 minutes before breakfast. This allows the medication to be absorbed and ready to reduce acid production when you eat. D. "I should expect to have diarrhea while taking this medication.” While diarrhea can be a side effect of pantoprazole, it's not a guaranteed or expected outcome.