Question

a client is diagnosed with peptic ulcer disease and receives a prescription for omeprazole 20 mg capsule daily. when providing the client with discharge teaching, the nurse should include which instruction?
a drink fluids between meals to relieve gastric distress.
b monitor for an increase in blood pressure during therapy.
c dissolve capsule contents in fruit juice for easier ingestion.
d take at same time each day one hour before eating a meal.

Explanation:

• Option A: Drinking fluids between meals may not be a standard instruction for omeprazole (a proton - pump inhibitor) and may not relieve gastric distress in the context of peptic ulcer disease management.
• Option B: Omeprazole is not typically associated with an increase in blood pressure, so this is an incorrect instruction.
• Option C: Omeprazole capsules should not be dissolved in fruit juice or other liquids; they are usually taken whole (or opened and sprinkled on applesauce for those who have difficulty swallowing, but not in fruit juice).
• Option D: Omeprazole is most effective when taken at the same time each day, one hour before a meal, as it works to inhibit acid production and this timing optimizes its effect on gastric acid secretion related to meal - induced acid production in peptic ulcer disease.

Answer:

D. Take at same time each day one hour before eating a meal