A nurse is teaching a client who is scheduled for an esophagogastroduodenoscopy. Which of the following information should the nurse include?

Rationale: A. A mild sore throat is a common expected finding after an EGD due to insertion of the endoscope through the oropharynx and esophagus. It usually resolves without intervention. Only severe pain, bleeding, or difficulty swallowing would require further evaluation. B. Clients are typically instructed to remain NPO (nothing by mouth) for 6–8 hours before an EGD to ensure an empty stomach. This reduces the risk of aspiration during sedation and scope insertion. C. Clients receive sedative medications during an EGD, which impair judgment, reflexes, and coordination. They should not drive, operate machinery, or make important decisions for the remainder of the day. They must have a responsible adult accompany them home. D. After an EGD, local anesthetic (such as lidocaine spray) is often used to suppress the gag reflex. The nurse must assess the return of the gag reflex before allowing oral intake to prevent aspiration. This is a key safety step in post-procedure care.