Question

A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a client who has a new prescription for omeprazole oral capsule. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

A. Take the medication at bedtime
B. Swallow the medication whole
C. Take the medication with food
D. Avoid antacids when taking the medication

Answer 1

The nurse should instruct the client to swallow the omeprazole capsule whole, take it on an empty stomach, and avoid antacids.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should include the following instruction for the client who has a new prescription for omeprazole oral capsule:

1. Swallow the medication whole: The nurse should instruct the client to swallow the omeprazole capsule whole without crushing, chewing, or opening it. This is because the capsule is designed to release the medication slowly in the stomach, and breaking the capsule may alter its effectiveness.
2. Take the medication on an empty stomach: Omeprazole is most effective when taken on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before a meal. Taking it with food may decrease its absorption and effectiveness.
3. Avoid antacids when taking the medication: Antacids can interfere with the absorption of omeprazole, so it is important for the client to avoid taking antacids within 1 hour before or after taking omeprazole.