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?

Choice A: Allowing for imaginative play with peers without supervision is not an appropriate intervention for a child who has autism spectrum disorder, as it can cause frustration, anxiety, or isolation for the child. A child who has autism spectrum disorder may have difficulty with social skills, communication, and imagination, which can affect their ability to interact and play with others. The nurse should provide structured and supervised play activities that promote socialization and cooperation.

Choice B: Providing a completely unpredictable schedule that adjusts to the child's interests is not an appropriate intervention for a child who has autism spectrum disorder, as it can cause confusion, stress, or tantrums for the child. A child who has autism spectrum disorder may have difficulty with transitions, changes, and flexibility, which can affect their ability to cope and adapt to different situations. The nurse should provide a consistent and predictable schedule that follows a routine and gives clear expectations.

Choice C: Allowing for adjustment of rules to correlate with the child's behavior is not an appropriate intervention for a child who has autism spectrum disorder, as it can cause inconsistency, insecurity, or manipulation for the child. A child who has autism spectrum disorder may have difficulty understanding and following rules, which can affect their ability to behave and function appropriately. The nurse should provide firm and fair rules that are enforced consistently and respectfully.

Choice D: Establishing a reward system for positive behavior with prizes is an appropriate intervention for a child who has autism spectrum disorder, as it can provide motivation, reinforcement, and feedback for the child. A child who has autism spectrum disorder may have difficulty with learning and performing new skills, which can affect their ability to achieve and succeed. The nurse should provide a reward system that recognizes and rewards positive behavior with tangible or intangible prizes.

Choice A: Reducing environmental stimuli can help decrease the discomfort and agitation of a child who has meningitis, as they may experience headache, photophobia, and neck stiffness. However, this action is not the priority, as it does not address the cause of the infection or prevent complications.

Choice B: Documenting intake and output can help monitor the fluid balance and hydration status of a child who has meningitis, as they may have fever, vomiting, and decreased oral intake. However, this action is not the priority, as it does not address the cause of the infection or prevent complications.

Choice C: Administering antibiotics when available can help treat the bacterial infection that causes meningitis and prevent serious complications such as brain damage, hearing loss, or death. This action is the priority, as it can save the child's life and improve their outcome.

Choice D: Maintaining seizure precautions can help protect the child from injury and provide safety measures in case of a seizure, as meningitis can cause increased intracranial pressure and seizures. However, this action is not the priority, as it does not address the cause of the infection or prevent complications.