The nurse is caring for a patient who is receiving several cardiac medications designed to stimulate the sympathetic nervous system,vitamin B₁₂,and an H₂ blocker.The nurse should do which of the following? A) Assess for signs of peptic ulcer. B) Be watchful for increased saliva production. C) Evaluate for a decrease in potassium level. D) Give the patient medications to prevent anemia.

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Secretion of mucus by Brunner's glands is inhibited by sympathetic stimulation,which leaves the duodenum unprotected from gastric juice.This inhibition is thought to be one of the reasons why this area of the GI tract is the site for more than 50% of peptic ulcers.Sympathetic stimulation produces a scant output of thick saliva.Vitamin B₁₂ is critical for the formation of red blood cells (RBCs),and a deficiency in this vitamin causes anemia.However,the patient is receiving vitamin B₁₂. .The stomach also secretes fluid that is rich in sodium,potassium,and other electrolytes.Loss of these fluids via vomiting or gastric suction places the patient at risk for fluid and electrolyte imbalances and acid-base disturbances.However,nothing indicates that the patient is vomiting or has GI suction.

The Nurse Is Caring for a Patient Who Is Receiving