Ambulatory Care Nurse Certification Practice Exam

In managing a patient with acid reflux symptoms, the nurse's first step is to inquire about dietary habits. This is because diet plays a significant role in the onset and exacerbation of acid reflux symptoms. By understanding what the patient is consuming, the nurse can identify potential triggers such as fatty foods, caffeine, chocolate, or alcohol. This information helps to guide the conversation about dietary modifications that may alleviate symptoms and improve the patient's condition.

Additionally, addressing dietary habits provides a foundation for further assessment and interventions. Once the nurse has gathered this information, they can move on to more comprehensive assessments, recommend lifestyle changes, or discuss medication adherence tailored to the specifics of the patient's diet and symptom triggers. Recognizing the patient's dietary patterns is crucial for effective management of acid reflux, making it the logical first step in care.