A nurse is preparing to educate a patient who has newly been prescribed sucralfate (Carafate) for the management of peptic ulcer disease (PUD). What is the mechanism of action for this medication?

Neutralizes the acidity of the gastric acid.

Acts as an endogenous prostaglandin in the GI tract.

Antagonizes H2 receptors on parietal cells.

Creates a protective barrier that adheres to an ulcer, which can stick to the ulcer for up to 6 hours.