Final answer:
The charge nurse should include discussion on proton pump inhibitors, antacids, vasoactive drugs, antibiotics, and histamine H2-receptor antagonists as medications in the management of GI bleeding. These medications help in reducing stomach acid production, neutralizing existing acid, minimizing blood flow to bleeding sites, treating infections, and preventing stress ulcers.
Step-by-step explanation:
Medications for Managing GI Bleeding
In planning a staff education session on medications used during the care of a client experiencing gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding, the charge nurse should include several types of medications. These medications have distinct mechanisms of action and therapeutic aims. Firstly, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) such as omeprazole are typically used to decrease stomach acid production, which can promote healing of ulcers and reduce further bleeding. Secondly, antacids may be discussed as they neutralize existing stomach acid, providing symptomatic relief. Moreover, when bleeding is suspected to be caused by varices, vasoactive drugs like octreotide may be used to reduce blood flow to the region and minimize bleeding. In cases of infectious causes such as H. pylori, antibiotics are also essential to treat the underlying infection. Finally, for patients who are critically ill and at risk of stress ulcers, prophylactic administration of histamine H2-receptor antagonists, like ranitidine, may be warranted.
The discussion during the session should also emphasize the importance of regularly monitoring the patient's vital signs, ensuring adequate fluid resuscitation, and assessing for signs of rebleeding or medication-induced side effects.