Question

The client is prescribed intravenous metoclopramide (Reglan), as needed. The client asks how the medication works. How should the nurse respond?

Answers:

A "It promotes gastric emptying and suppresses nausea centers in the brain"

B "It decreases the gastric acidity that triggers nausea."

C "It slows peristalsis to stop emetic contractions."

D "It sedates the vagal nerve."

Answer 1

Answer is A.

Option A - Metoclopramide stimulates the gastric motility without stimulating the gastric secretions. It sensitizes the tissues to the action of acetylcholine. The antagonist receptors activity in the central nervous system prevents nausea and vomiting.

Option B - The medication does not cause direct reduction in gastric secretions.

Option C - It does not slow peristalsis. It increases peristalsis to promote fast emptying of gastric contents.

Option D - It does not sedate the vagal nerve. Instead it acts as an antagonist.