A nurse is providing education to a client with a history of peptic ulcer disease on preventive strategies. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include to help prevent ulcer recurrence?

Choice A reason:

This statement is correct. Smoking and excessive alcohol intake can irritate the stomach lining and increase the risk of peptic ulcer recurrence. Avoiding these substances is important for promoting healing and preventing further damage.

Choice B reason:

Consuming a high-fat diet is not recommended for peptic ulcer prevention. High-fat foods can stimulate acid production and worsen symptoms for clients with peptic ulcers.

Choice C reason:

Engaging in strenuous exercise immediately after meals is not advisable, as it can increase the risk of acid reflux and worsen symptoms for clients with peptic ulcers.

Choice D reason:

Regular use of NSAIDs can increase the risk of developing peptic ulcers and is not a preventive strategy for clients with a history of peptic ulcer disease.

Choice A reason:

Hypertension and increased heart rate are not early signs of gastrointestinal bleeding. In fact, hypotension and tachycardia are more common signs of significant blood loss.

Choice B reason:

Abdominal distention and bloating are not typical early signs of gastrointestinal bleeding. These symptoms may occur due to other gastrointestinal issues but are not specific to bleeding.

Choice C reason:

This statement is correct. Melena, or black, tarry stools, is a classic sign of upper gastrointestinal bleeding and indicates the presence of partially digested blood in the stool.

Choice D reason:

Hyperactive bowel sounds are not early signs of gastrointestinal bleeding. Bowel sounds may be hyperactive or hypoactive depending on the severity of the bleeding and associated factors.