The nurse is gathering information from a patient who has GERD. Which of the following observations is a symptom of GERD?

Choice A rationale
Elevating the head of the bed is a recommended strategy to minimize the effects of reflux during sleep. This position uses gravity to keep stomach acid from flowing back into the esophagus.
Choice B rationale
Eating a snack 1 hour before going to bed can actually worsen reflux symptoms. It’s generally recommended to avoid eating 2-3 hours before bedtime.
Choice C rationale
Alcohol can relax the lower esophageal sphincter, making it easier for stomach acid to reflux into the esophagus. Therefore, consuming alcohol before bed is not advisable.
Choice D rationale
Sleeping on the stomach with the head flat can exacerbate reflux symptoms. This position does not utilize gravity to keep stomach acid from flowing back into the esophagus.

Choice A rationale
While it’s important to prepare for a barium swallow test, maintaining a clear liquid diet 24 hours before the test is not typically required.
Choice B rationale
Drinking plenty of fluids after the test is indeed a correct instruction. The barium used in the test can cause constipation or impacted stool if it does not pass out of the body. Drinking ample fluids helps flush the contrast from the gastrointestinal system.
Choice C rationale
While it’s true that the stool may be discolored after a barium swallow test, it’s more likely to be lighter or white, not black.
Choice D rationale

The barium swallow test does not involve the injection of any dye that would cause a warm feeling. This sensation is more commonly associated with the injection of contrast dye in other types of imaging tests, not a barium swallow.