The client has been ordered allopurinol (Zyloprim) and is preparing for discharge. What should the nurse include in the discharge instructions?

Choice A reason: Furosemide, a loop diuretic, inhibits the sodium-potassium-chloride cotransporter in the thick ascending limb of the loop of Henle, preventing sodium and water reabsorption. This increases urine output significantly, often within minutes, making it highly effective for conditions like edema or heart failure, producing a rapid diuresis of up to 20% of filtered sodium.

Choice B reason: Spironolactone, a potassium-sparing diuretic, inhibits aldosterone in the distal tubule, reducing sodium reabsorption and increasing urine output. However, its diuretic effect is weaker than furosemide, as it affects only 2-3% of filtered sodium. It is primarily used for managing hyperaldosteronism or potassium retention, not rapid urine flow increase.

Choice C reason: Hydrochlorothiazide, a thiazide diuretic, inhibits sodium-chloride reabsorption in the distal convoluted tubule, increasing urine output. Its effect is milder than furosemide, impacting about 5-10% of filtered sodium. It is commonly used for hypertension but is less potent for rapid diuresis in conditions requiring significant urine flow.

Choice D reason: Mannitol, an osmotic diuretic, increases urine flow by preventing water reabsorption in the proximal tubule and loop of Henle. It is effective in acute settings like cerebral edema but less commonly used for routine diuresis compared to furosemide, which has a broader and more rapid effect on urine output.

Choice A reason: Melena, dark tarry stools from digested blood, indicates upper gastrointestinal bleeding, not typically GERD. GERD involves acid reflux causing esophageal irritation, not bleeding severe enough for melena. This statement is inaccurate, as melena is more associated with ulcers or varices, not reflux disease.

Choice B reason: Heartburn, a burning sensation in the chest, is a hallmark of GERD, caused by stomach acid refluxing into the esophagus, irritating the mucosa. It results from lower esophageal sphincter dysfunction, allowing acid backflow. This statement is accurate, as heartburn is a primary diagnostic symptom of GERD.

Choice C reason: Hematemesis, vomiting blood, is not a common GERD symptom but indicates severe conditions like esophageal varices or ulcers. While chronic GERD may lead to esophagitis, bleeding is rare. This statement is inaccurate, as hematemesis is not a characteristic feature of typical GERD presentations.

Choice D reason: Dysphagia, difficulty swallowing, can occur in severe GERD due to esophageal strictures or motility issues but is not a primary characteristic. Heartburn is more common and diagnostic. This statement is less accurate, as dysphagia is a complication, not a defining feature of GERD.