Final answer:
The statement by the patient indicating a need for further teaching about managing GERD is the intention to eat a snack at bedtime. This practice can increase the likelihood of reflux by allowing stomach contents to enter the esophagus when lying down, which goes against the recommendation to eat the last meal a few hours before sleeping.
Step-by-step explanation:
The nurse is instructing a patient recently diagnosed with Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). Among the statements provided by the patient, the one indicating a need for further teaching is:
"I will eat small, frequent meals and a snack at bedtime."This statement demonstrates a misunderstanding of proper dietary habits for a person with GERD. Eating small frequent meals is advisable, however having snacks right at bedtime can increase the chance of reflux as lying down soon after eating can lead to stomach contents moving back into the esophagus. To manage GERD symptoms effectively, it is recommended to eat the last meal of the day at least a couple of hours before bedtime to reduce the risk of reflux.
Other lifestyle changes for managing GERD include avoiding certain foods and beverages like chocolate, fatty foods peppermint, coffee, and alcoholic beverages which can aggravate symptoms. Additionally, modifications such as eating more slowly, quitting smoking and weight loss in overweight individuals can be beneficial.