The nurse is providing discharge education to a patient with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The nurse recognizes that the patient understood the education when the patient makes what statement?

A. Provide a warm heating pad to the abdomen: Heat increases vasodilation and may worsen inflammation or bleeding in the setting of a suspected perforated ulcer. Thermal application can also mask worsening symptoms and delay urgent intervention. This measure is contraindicated in an acute abdominal emergency.

B. Notify the provider immediately: Sudden severe pain, a rigid board-like abdomen, and referred shoulder pain indicate possible gastric or duodenal perforation with peritonitis. This is a life-threatening surgical emergency requiring rapid medical and surgical intervention. Immediate provider notification is critical to prevent sepsis and shock.

C. Administer the prescribed antacid: Antacids reduce gastric acidity but do not address perforation or intra-abdominal contamination. Giving oral medications may be unsafe if surgical intervention is imminent. This action delays definitive care.

D. Reassess the abdomen in 60 minutes: Delaying action in the presence of classic signs of perforation risks rapid deterioration. Ongoing leakage of gastric contents can quickly lead to peritonitis and systemic infection. Immediate escalation of care is required rather than reassessment.

A. “I will report any signs of depression to my provider.": Monitoring mood is important because interferon beta can contribute to depression, but reporting symptoms ensures early intervention. This statement reflects appropriate understanding and does not compromise treatment efficacy.

B. "I will rotate injection sites with each dose.": Rotating injection sites reduces local skin reactions and maintains absorption. This demonstrates proper self-administration technique and supports effective treatment.

C. “I may have flu-like symptoms when I start this medication.": Flu-like symptoms are a common side effect of interferon beta. Recognizing this allows the client to manage symptoms appropriately, usually without affecting treatment efficacy.

D. “I can stop the medication when I feel better.": Stopping interferon beta prematurely can reduce its effectiveness in preventing MS relapses and disease progression. This statement indicates misunderstanding of the need for continuous therapy and requires further education to ensure consistent disease management.