A nurse is caring for a client who has a new prescription for ferrous sulfate tablets twice daily for iron deficiency anemia. The client asks the nurse why the provider instructed that she take the ferrous sulfate between meals. Which of the following responses should the nurse make?
Taking the medication between meals will help you avoid becoming constipated.
The medication can cause nausea if taken with food.
Taking the medication between meals will help you absorb the medication more efficiently.
Taking the medication with food increases the risk of esophagitis.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: Taking the medication between meals will help you avoid becoming constipated is incorrect because it is not the reason why the provider instructed that she take the ferrous sulfate between meals. It is a possible benefit of taking the medication between meals, but it is not the main purpose. Iron supplements can cause constipation, but this can be prevented by drinking plenty of fluids, eating high-fiber foods, and exercising regularly.
Choice B reason: The medication can cause nausea if taken with food is incorrect because it is not the reason why the provider instructed that she take the ferrous sulfate between meals. It is a possible side effect of taking the medication with or without food, but it is not the main reason. Iron supplements can cause nausea, but this can be reduced by taking the medication with a small amount of food, such as crackers, or by taking an antiemetic medication.
Choice C reason: Taking the medication between meals will help you absorb the medication more efficiently is correct because it is the reason why the provider instructed that she take the ferrous sulfate between meals. It is the main purpose of taking the medication between meals, as iron absorption is enhanced when the stomach is empty and the pH is low. Iron supplements can interact with food components, such as calcium, phytates, and tannins, and reduce the amount of iron that is absorbed by the body.
Choice D reason: Taking the medication with food increases the risk of esophagitis is incorrect because it is not the reason why the provider instructed that she take the ferrous sulfate between meals. It is a possible complication of taking the medication without enough water, but it is not the main reason. Iron supplements can cause esophagitis, which is inflammation of the esophagus, if they are not swallowed properly or if they get stuck in the throat. This can be prevented by taking the medication with a full glass of water, sitting upright, and not lying down for at least 30 minutes after taking the medication.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: This is a correct statement, as the NST measures the fetal heart rate and its response to fetal movement. The nurse will place two belts around the client's abdomen, one to monitor the heart rate and one to monitor the contractions.
Choice B reason: This is a correct statement, as the NST usually takes 20 to 30 minutes to complete. The nurse will look for at least two accelerations of the fetal heart rate within a 20-minute period.
Choice C reason: This is a correct statement, as the NST is more likely to be reactive (normal) when the baby is active. The client may be asked to eat or drink something before the test to stimulate the baby's movement.
Choice D reason: This is an incorrect statement, as the client does not have to lie on her back during the test. Lying on the back can compress the inferior vena cava and reduce the blood flow to the placenta. The client can lie on her side or sit in a reclining chair during the test.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Reducing stress level is a good practice for a pregnant client, as it can lower the risk of complications such as preterm labor, hypertension, and low birth weight. Therefore, this statement does not indicate a need for further teaching.
Choice B reason: Using only nonprescription medications while pregnant is a dangerous and incorrect practice, as some over-the-counter drugs can harm the fetus or cause birth defects. The client should always consult with their doctor before taking any medication, whether prescription or nonprescription. Therefore, this statement indicates a need for further teaching.
Choice C reason: Monitoring weight gain during pregnancy is a recommended practice, as it can help the client and the doctor assess the health and growth of the fetus. The client should follow the guidelines for appropriate weight gain based on their pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI). Therefore, this statement does not indicate a need for further teaching.
Choice D reason: Telling the doctor before using home remedies for nausea is a prudent practice, as some herbal or natural remedies can interact with medications or cause adverse effects on the fetus. The client should also avoid self-medication and seek medical advice for persistent or severe nausea. Therefore, this statement does not indicate a need for further teaching.

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