A nurse is caring for a child who is experiencing an acute asthma attack. Which of the following medications should the nurse administer first?

A. Administer the medication at mealtime.Ferrous sulfate is best absorbed on an empty stomach because food, especially those rich in calcium or tannins, can interfere with its absorption. Administering it with meals reduces its effectiveness.

B.While bedtime administration is not contraindicated, it is not necessary. The timing of administration should focus on maximizing absorption, typically between meals or on an empty stomach.

C. Ferrous sulfate can stain teeth if taken orally in liquid form. Using a straw minimizes contact with teeth, reducing the risk of discoloration. Parents should also be advised to encourage the child to rinse their mouth after taking the medication.

D. Dilute the medication with 240 mL of milk. Milk contains calcium, which inhibits the absorption of iron. Ferrous sulfate should not be taken with milk or dairy products to ensure optimal absorption.

A. Flaccid paralysis of lower extremities:

Flaccid paralysis refers to a weakness or loss of muscle tone in the affected muscles, leading to decreased or absent movement. This finding is not typically associated with spina bifida occulta. Instead, it is more commonly seen in more severe forms of spina bifida, such as myelomeningocele, where there is significant involvement of the spinal cord and nerves.

B. Hip dislocation:

Hip dislocation can occur in individuals with myelomeningocele due to muscle weakness, abnormal muscle tone, and joint deformities associated with spinal cord defects. However, it is not typically associated with spina bifida occulta, which usually presents with less severe spinal cord involvement.

C. Hydrocephalus:

Hydrocephalus, characterized by the accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid within the brain, is a common complication of myelomeningocele due to disturbances in the flow and absorption of cerebrospinal fluid caused by the spinal defect. It is less commonly associated with spina bifida occulta, which typically involves a less severe spinal cord defect.

D. Dimple in sacral area:

This is the correct choice. A dimple, patch of hair, or birthmark in the lower back or sacral area is a common finding in spina bifida occulta. It occurs due to the incomplete closure of the spinal column during fetal development, leading to a small defect in the vertebrae. This is often a subtle manifestation of spina bifida occulta and may not cause significant symptoms or functional impairment.