Which action should the nurse take for a patient treated with high-dose aspirin during an acute prednisone flare to reduce gastric irritation?

• A. Monitor for hypoglycemia
• B. Monitor for increased urine output
• C. Observe for hypotension
• D. Request an enteric-coated aspirin

Answer: (D)

High-dose aspirin can irritate the stomach because it inhibits prostaglandin production, which protects the gastric mucosa. During an acute prednisone flare, the GI tract is more vulnerable to irritation and ulcers. Using an enteric-coated aspirin delays dissolution until it reaches the small intestine, reducing direct contact with the stomach lining and lowering the risk of gastritis. So, requesting an enteric-coated aspirin minimizes gastric irritation while still providing the intended effect of aspirin. The other options don’t address the GI irritation risk and aren’t as directly protective in this context.