A nurse in a pediatric clinic is caring for a child who has iron deficiency anemia and a new prescription for ferrous sulfate tablets. Which of the following instructions should the nurse provide the parents regarding the administration of this medication?
Iron (Ferrous Sulfate) may turn stools tarry green.
Administer at bedtime.
Give with a 240 mL (8 oz) glass of milk.
Administer at mealtimes.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A: This instruction is correct, as iron supplements can cause a change in the color and consistency of stools, making them dark, green, or black. This is not a sign of bleeding or infection, but a normal side effect of iron therapy. The parents should be informed of this possibility and reassured that it is harmless.
Choice B: This instruction is incorrect, as iron supplements should not be administered at bedtime, but rather one hour before or two hours after meals. This is because iron absorption is reduced by food, especially dairy products, antacids, or calcium supplements. The parents should be instructed to give the medication on an empty stomach or with a small amount of food if it causes nausea.
Choice C: This instruction is incorrect, as iron supplements should not be given with milk, as milk contains calcium, which can interfere with iron absorption and reduce its effectiveness. The parents should be instructed to avoid giving milk or other dairy products within two hours of the medication.
Choice D: This instruction is incorrect, as iron supplements should not be administered at mealtimes, but rather one hour before or two hours after meals. This is because iron absorption is reduced by food, especially dairy products, antacids, or calcium supplements. The parents should be instructed to give the medication on an empty stomach or with a small amount of food if it causes nausea.

Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A:In actual practice, log rolling is typically done every 2 hoursto align with standard nursing protocols for preventing complications such as pressure injuries, maintaining skin integrity, and ensuring patient comfort. Repositioning every 2 hours also helps promote better circulation and reduces the risk of complications like pneumonia and deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
as a unit without twisting or bending the spine. The nurse should use a draw sheet and at least two other staff
members to assist with log rolling.
Choice B: This intervention is incorrect, as keeping the head of the bed at a 30-degree angle can cause flexion of the spine and compromise spinal alignment. The head of the bed should be kept flat or slightly elevated, depending on the provider's orders and the client's comfort. The nurse should avoid raising or lowering the head of the bed without checking with the provider first.
Choice C: This intervention is unnecessary, as placing the client in protective isolation is not indicated for a client who is postoperative following scoliosis repair with Harrington rod instrumentation. Protective isolation is used for clients who have compromised immune systems and are at high risk of acquiring infections from others, such as transplant recipients, cancer patients, or patients receiving immunosuppressive therapy. The nurse should follow standard precautions and surgical site care to prevent infection in this client.
Choice D: This intervention is optional, as initiating the use of a PCA pump for pain control may or may not be appropriate for a client who is postoperative following scoliosis repair with Harrington rod instrumentation. A PCA pump is a device that allows the client to self-administer a preset dose of analgesic medication by pressing a button. A PCA pump can provide effective and individualized pain relief, but it requires careful monitoring and education. The nurse should assess the client's pain level, preference, and ability to use a PCA pump and consult with the provider before initiating it.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A: Using a pincer grasp indicates a need for further evaluation, as it is a developmental milestone that is usually achieved by 9 to 10 months of age. A pincer grasp is the ability to pick up small objects using the thumb and index finger. A 7-month-old infant should be able to use a raking grasp, which is the ability to scoop up objects using all fingers.
Choice B: Having a fear of strangers does not indicate a need for further evaluation, as it is a normal and expected behavior for a 7-month-old infant. A fear of strangers is a sign of attachment and recognition of familiar and unfamiliar faces. A 7-month-old infant may cry, cling, or turn away from strangers.
Choice C: Showing preferences towards foods does not indicate a need for further evaluation, as it is a normal and expected behavior for a 7-month-old infant. Showing preferences towards foods is a sign of individuality and taste development. A 7-month-old infant may accept or reject certain foods based on their flavor, texture, or appearance.
Choice D: Babbling one-syllable sounds does not indicate a need for further evaluation, as it is a normal and expected behavior for a 7-month-old infant. Babbling one-syllable sounds is a sign of language and communication development. A 7-month-old infant may make sounds such as "ba", "da", "ga", or "ma".
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