Which adverse effect will the nurse monitor for in a patient receiving finasteride? Select all that apply

A. "It directly stimulates prostaglandin E1 receptors to help protect the stomach” Prostaglandin analogs like misoprostol work by stimulating prostaglandin receptors. Bismuth’s action is more antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory, not receptor-based.

B. "It decreases flow of fluids into bowel, reduces inflammation, and may kill the organism causing diarrhea.” Bismuth subsalicylate has multiple effects: it reduces intestinal secretions, has anti-inflammatory properties due to its salicylate component, and possesses antimicrobial activity, especially against H. pylori and other diarrheal pathogens.

C. "It coats the stomach and aids in the healing of the stomach lining.” While bismuth does provide a mild protective effect, it is not primarily a mucosal-coating agent. Sucralfate is more effective for mucosal coating and ulcer protection than bismuth subsalicylate.

D. "It inhibits the proton pump in the stomach which generates gastric acid.” This describes the mechanism of proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs) like omeprazole. Bismuth subsalicylate does not block acid production at the cellular level.

A. Famotidine will shorten the time required for digestion in the stomach: Famotidine does not affect the speed of gastric digestion. It works by blocking histamine H2 receptors in the stomach lining, reducing acid secretion but not influencing the rate of digestive processes.

B. Famotidine will improve the mixing of foods and gastric secretions: This medication does not play a role in mechanical digestion or motility. It affects acid production, not the physical mixing of food with gastric contents or enzymes.

C. Famotidine will neutralize acid in the stomach and must be used frequently: Famotidine does not neutralize acid like antacids do; instead, it decreases acid production. It has a longer duration of action and does not require frequent dosing, typically taken once or twice daily.

D. Famotidine will inhibit gastric acid secretions and should only be used short term:
Famotidine is an H2-receptor antagonist that decreases gastric acid secretion. Long-term use is discouraged without medical supervision, as it may mask symptoms of serious gastrointestinal conditions or lead to tolerance.