A client who requires daily use of a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) for management of severe rheumatoid arthritis has recently developed melena. Which of the following information should the nurse include in the teaching plan?
A)Substitution of acetaminophen for the NSAID
B)Use of enteric-coated NSAIDs to reduce gastric irritation
C)Reasons for using corticosteroids to treat the rheumatoid arthritis
D)The benefits of misoprostol in protecting the gastrointestinal (GI) mucosa

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Misoprostol, a prostaglandin analogue, reduces acid secretion and incidence of upper GI bleeding associated with NSAID use. Enteric coating of NSAIDs does not reduce the risk for GI bleeding. Corticosteroids increase the risk for ulcer development and will not be substituted for NSAIDs for this client. Acetaminophen will not be effective in treating the client's rheumatoid arthritis.

A Client Who Requires Daily Use of a Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory