A nurse is providing teaching to a client who has a duodenal ulcer and is starting to take sucralfate. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include in the teaching?

Choice A rationale:
The client’s temperature has decreased from 37.8°C (100°F) to 37.2°C (99°F). While this is a slight reduction, it indicates a move towards a more normal body temperature. Elevated temperatures can be associated with stress, anxiety, or other underlying conditions. A decrease in temperature suggests that the client’s body is stabilizing and that any potential underlying issues causing the elevated temperature are being managed effectively.

Choice B rationale:
The client’s mood has improved as she appears less anxious and more composed during the physical examination. Anxiety can significantly impact a person’s overall well-being, and a reduction in anxiety levels is a positive indicator of improvement. The client also expresses optimism about her recovery, which is a good sign of mental health improvement.
Choice C rationale:
The client has gained weight, increasing from 53 kg (117 lb) to 55 kg (121 lb). Weight gain in this context is a positive sign, indicating that the client’s body is responding well to treatment and that her nutritional status is improving. Unintentional weight loss can be a symptom of underlying health issues, so reversing this trend is a good indicator of recovery.
Choice D rationale:
The client reports better sleep, which is a significant improvement from her previous insomnia. Sleep is crucial for physical and mental health, and improved sleep patterns can lead to better overall health outcomes. Insomnia can exacerbate anxiety and other health issues, so better sleep is a positive sign.
Choice E rationale:
The client’s heart rate has decreased from 120/min to 95/min. A high heart rate can be a sign of anxiety, stress, or other health issues. A reduction in heart rate indicates that the client’s anxiety levels are decreasing and that her cardiovascular system is stabilizing. This is a positive sign of improvement in her overall health.

Choice A rationale
Immediate-release exenatide pens should be discarded 30 days after the first use, not two months. This ensures the medication remains effective and free from contamination.
Choice B rationale
Exenatide is administered subcutaneously, not intramuscularly. The preferred injection sites are the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm.
Choice C rationale
Open exenatide pens should be stored at room temperature, but this is not the most critical aspect of patient education. Proper storage ensures the medication’s stability and effectiveness.
Choice D rationale
Immediate-release exenatide should be taken one hour before morning and evening meals to optimize its glucose-lowering effects by enhancing insulin secretion in response to meals.