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: 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".
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A: Applying heat to a bleeding site can increase blood flow and worsen the bleeding. This statement indicates a need for further teaching, as the parent should avoid applying heat and use cold compresses instead.
Choice B: Having the child rest can reduce physical activity and prevent further injury or bleeding. This statement indicates that the parent understands the teaching, as resting is one of the recommended actions for controlling a minor bleeding episode.
Choice C: Compressing the site can apply pressure and stop the bleeding. This statement indicates that the parent understands the teaching, as compressing is one of the recommended actions for controlling a minor bleeding episode.
Choice D: Elevating the affected part can reduce blood pressure and slow down the bleeding. This statement indicates that the parent understands the teaching, as elevating is one of the recommended actions for controlling a minor bleeding episode.
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