Which instruction should the nurse include in the discharge teaching plan of a client who is prescribed ibuprofen for arthritic pain?

Rationale: A. Take the medication on an empty stomach: Ibuprofen should be taken with food or milk to minimize gastric irritation. Taking it on an empty stomach increases the risk of developing ulcers or gastrointestinal discomfort. B. Monitor blood pressure frequently: Long-term NSAID use may contribute to hypertension, but this is not the primary safety concern compared to gastrointestinal bleeding. Blood pressure monitoring is important, yet secondary in teaching. C. Wear a high intensity sunblock when outside: Photosensitivity is not a major adverse effect of ibuprofen. This instruction would be more appropriate for medications such as tetracyclines or sulfonamides. D. Report any signs of gastrointestinal bleeding: Ibuprofen, an NSAID, can damage the gastric mucosa and cause ulceration or bleeding. Clients should be taught to report black, tarry stools, hematemesis, or abdominal pain promptly.