A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a parent of a child who has gastroesophageal reflux disease and a new prescription for lansoprazole capsules.Which of the following statements by the parent indicates an understanding of the teaching?
Explanation & Rationale
Choice A rationaleLansoprazole is a proton pump inhibitor designed to reduce gastric acid production, enhancing mucosal healing in gastroesophageal reflux disease. Administering the medication 30 minutes before breakfast optimizes its absorption because food delays and reduces its effectiveness. By taking it on an empty stomach, peak plasma levels are achieved, leading to better therapeutic outcomes in managing acid-related conditions.Choice B rationalePlacing the capsule under the tongue is incorrect as lansoprazole is not formulated for sublingual absorption. Its intended route is oral ingestion, where it dissolves in the gastrointestinal tract for systemic absorption. Using it sublingually could result in reduced efficacy and unintended pharmacokinetic variations, undermining its role in suppressing gastric acid secretion.Choice C rationaleChewing the capsule is not advised because the formulation is often enteric-coated to prevent degradation in the acidic stomach environment. Crushing or chewing disrupts this protective layer, exposing the active ingredient to acid, which reduces the medication's effectiveness in controlling acid secretion.Choice D rationaleAdministering the medication four times daily is incorrect since lansoprazole is generally prescribed once daily or, in some cases, twice daily for severe conditions. Excessive dosing could lead to adverse effects such as diarrhea or nutrient malabsorption, particularly of magnesium and calcium, due to its prolonged acid suppression.