A patient who was admitted with acute bleeding from esophageal varices asks the nurse the purpose for the ordered ranitidine (Zantac). Which response by the nurse is most appropriate?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The therapeutic action of H₂ receptor blockers in patients with esophageal varices is to prevent irritation and bleeding from the varices caused by reflux of acid gastric contents. Although ranitidine does decrease the risk for peptic ulcers, reduce nausea, and help prevent aspiration pneumonia, these are not the primary purpose for H₂ receptor blockade in this patient.

A Patient Who Was Admitted with Acute Bleeding from Esophageal