Question

A client with chronic gastritis is being treated with medication and diet. What should the nurse teach the client when discussing the therapeutic regimen?

1. Lie down after eating when possible
2. Take an antacid preparation with meals
3. Limit high-carbohydrate foods in the diet
4. Avoid using analgesics that contain aspirin

Answer 1

For a client with chronic gastritis, the nurse should advise avoiding analgesics that contain aspirin due to an increased risk of ulcers and possibly recommend antacids to relieve discomfort. Dietary changes such as eating more slowly and avoiding fatty foods can also help manage symptoms.

Step-by-step explanation:

For a client with chronic gastritis being treated with medication and diet, the nurse should provide education on a therapeutic regimen that includes lifestyle and dietary adjustments. The following instruction is critical: Avoid using analgesics that contain aspirin. Aspirin can lead to serious side effects like increasing the risk of ulcers, which is particularly relevant for someone with chronic gastritis. Additionally, the nurse might recommend taking an antacid with meals to help relieve symptoms such as "burning" pain and indigestion. Switching to other classes of pain relievers allows healing when ulcers are caused by NSAID use. While lifestyle changes might involve modifications such as eating more slowly, eating smaller meals, avoiding fatty foods, and not lying down after eating to help prevent symptoms of acute indigestion. The use of antacids or other medications might also be recommended to relieve symptoms. Gastric ulcers' pain is often due to acidic gastric juice irritating ulcerated tissue; thus, antacids can be beneficial in symptom management. However, it's essential for clients to consult with their physician before beginning any new medication regimen, including over-the-counter antacids.