What information should the nurse include in the teaching plan for a patient diagnosed with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)?

Choice A rationale Adjusting food intake to three full meals per day with no snacks is not necessarily recommended for GERD patients. Smaller, more frequent meals can help prevent the stomach from becoming too full and causing reflux. Choice B rationale Avoiding participation in any aerobic exercise programs is not a general recommendation for GERD patients. While some exercises may worsen GERD symptoms, many forms of aerobic exercise can be performed without triggering symptoms. Choice C rationale Sleeping without pillows at night to maintain neck alignment is not typically recommended for GERD patients. Elevating the head of the bed can actually help prevent acid reflux during sleep. Choice D rationale Wearing loose, comfortable clothing can help minimize GERD symptoms. Tight clothing can put pressure on the abdomen and the lower esophageal sphincter, potentially causing reflux.