The nurse is providing an in-service on mucosal protectants. What medication protects the ulcer from further injury from acid and pepsin and is a viscous substance that can stick to the ulcer for up to 6 hours?

The correct answer is D: Sucralfate (Carafate). Sucralfate forms a protective barrier over ulcers, shielding them from stomach acid and pepsin. This viscous substance adheres to the ulcer surface, providing up to 6 hours of protection. Loperamide (A) is an antidiarrheal agent, not a mucosal protectant. Cimetidine (B) is an H2 receptor antagonist that decreases stomach acid production but does not directly protect ulcers. Docusate sodium (C) is a stool softener and does not provide mucosal protection like sucralfate.