A nurse is teaching a client who has a new prescription for aluminum hydroxide to treat heartburn. Which action by the nurse is most appropriate?

A. Auscultate cardiac rhythm for regularity: Aluminum hydroxide does not affect cardiac rhythm. It is not known to cause arrhythmias, and cardiac monitoring is not required unless the client has other underlying cardiac conditions unrelated to this antacid therapy. B. Evaluate the client to prevent hyperphosphatemia: Aluminum hydroxide binds phosphate in the gut and may actually lead to hypophosphatemia with prolonged use. Monitoring phosphate levels might be warranted in long-term therapy, but hyperphosphatemia is not the expected risk. C. Determine consistency of last bowel movement: Constipation is a common side effect of aluminum-containing antacids. Monitoring the frequency and consistency of the client’s bowel movements helps assess tolerance to the medication and supports early identification of adverse effects. D. Assess frequency and severity of flatus: Aluminum hydroxide is not typically associated with increased gas formation. While gastrointestinal assessment is important, evaluating for flatus is less relevant than monitoring for constipation in this context.