NURS 3100 Exam 1 Practice

An older client is admitted with gastrointestinal bleeding and states, "I don't understand this. All I did take was ibuprofen for my arthritis." What is the nurse's best response?

1. Encourage the client to substitute safer drugs, such as acetaminophen

2. Remind the client to contact their healthcare provider before taking any over-the-counter medications

3. Review non-pharmacologic methods to relieve joint pain

4. Teach the client about the side effects of ibuprofen

The correct answer is: Teach the client about the side effects of ibuprofen

The correct answer is D. Teaching the client about the side effects of ibuprofen in response to their statement about taking ibuprofen for arthritis is the best course of action. It is essential for the nurse to educate the client on the potential side effects of ibuprofen, such as gastrointestinal bleeding, which the client is currently experiencing. This empowers the client with knowledge about their medication and helps them make informed decisions about their health. Option A is not the best response because encouraging the client to substitute to safer drugs can be misleading without understanding the client's full medical history and treatment plan. Option B is not the most appropriate response in this situation as the client is already experiencing adverse effects from taking ibuprofen. Option C, while a valid consideration, does not address the immediate concern of the client experiencing gastrointestinal bleeding attributed to ibuprofen use.