Question

A nurse preceptor is working with a student nurse who is administering medications. Which statement by the student indicates an understanding of the action of an antacid?

A."The action occurs in the stomach by increasing the pH of the stomach contents and decreasing pepsin activity."
b."The action occurs in the small intestine, where the drug coats the lining and prevents further ulceration." c "The action occurs in the esophagus by increasing peristalsis and improving movement of food into the stomach."
d. "The action occurs in the large intestine by increasing electrolyte absorption into the system that decreases pepsin absorption."

Answer 1

A student demonstrates an understanding of antacids by stating they work in the stomach to increase pH and decrease pepsin activity. Antacids neutralize stomach acid through a chemical reaction, increasing pH levels and providing relief from symptoms like heartburn.

Step-by-step explanation:

The statement by the student that indicates an understanding of the action of an antacid is: "The action occurs in the stomach by increasing the pH of the stomach contents and decreasing pepsin activity." This action is mediated through a neutralization reaction where antacids, which are basic compounds such as calcium carbonate (CaCO3), neutralize the hydrochloric acid (HCl) in the stomach. The reaction between CaCO3 and HCl produces calcium chloride (CaCl2), water (H2O), and carbon dioxide (CO2), which increases the pH of the stomach contents and may result in belching due to the release of CO2 gas.

Antacids differ from other medications such as H2-receptor antagonists or proton pump inhibitors, which decrease the production of acid in the stomach rather than neutralizing existing acid. Antacids do not kill the bacteria Helicobacter pylori, which causes most ulcers.

Administering antacids can lead to side effects such as constipation or diarrhea, depending on the specific compounds they contain. However, they are effective in relieving symptoms related to excess stomach acid, like heartburn or indigestion.