A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a client who has a prescription for ferrous sulfate elixir.
Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?
"I can prevent nausea if I take the medication on an empty stomach."
"I will report black stools to my doctor."
"I will mix the medication with a full glass of water."
"I can prevent constipation if I drink more milk while taking this medication."
The Correct Answer is C
a. Ferrous sulfate works best when you take it on an empty stomach. However, taking ferrous sulfate on an empty stomach can actually increase the risk of gastrointestinal side effects, such as nausea. It is often recommended to take it with food to reduce nausea, even though absorption is best on an empty stomach. Thus, this statement does not indicate proper understanding.
b. Black stools are a common side effect of taking iron supplements and are usually not a cause for concern unless they are tarry or associated with other symptoms, which could indicate gastrointestinal bleeding. Reporting black stools to the doctor is typically not necessary unless the stool is tarry and has other concerning symptoms like abdominal pain or bleeding. This statement reflects a misunderstanding of common side effects.
c. Mixing ferrous sulfate elixir with a full glass of water is advisable because it helps dilute the medication, making it easier to swallow and reducing the risk of gastrointestinal irritation. This practice also ensures that the medication is taken completely. This statement indicates a correct understanding of how to take the medication properly.
d. While staying hydrated can help manage constipation, milk is not recommended with iron supplements because calcium in milk can interfere with the absorption of iron. Instead, increasing water intake, eating a high-fiber diet, and considering other dietary measures would be better advice for preventing constipation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Pain in the calf can be a potential symptom of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which is a serious complication after surgery. Monitoring the client's pulse oximetry can help assess for signs of decreased oxygenation, which may indicate a possible clot or compromised circulation. A decrease in oxygen saturation can be an early indicator of a potential DVT-related complication, such as a pulmonary embolism. Monitoring the pulse oximetry can provide valuable information for timely intervention and management.
Instructing the client to massage the calf gently is not advisable without further assessment and evaluation. Massaging the calf can potentially dislodge a clot if one is present, leading to further complications. It is important to rule out DVT through appropriate diagnostic measures before providing specific instructions for calf massage.
Maintaining the leg in a dependent position while in bed can potentially worsen the symptoms and increase the risk of venous stasis. Elevating the affected leg, rather than maintaining it in a dependent position, can help improve venous return and reduce pain or swelling.
Applying a cold compress to the client's calf is not recommended without further assessment. Heat or cold therapy should be applied based on the underlying cause of the pain. In the case of potential DVT, applying a cold compress can increase vasoconstriction and potentially worsen the condition. It is essential to investigate the cause of the pain first and consult with the healthcare provider before initiating any specific therapies or interventions.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A.While increasing dietary fiber can help with constipation, a common side effect of iron supplements, it does not directly improve the absorption of the medication
B.Berries and citrus fruits, on the other hand, are good sources of vitamin C, which can actually enhance iron absorption. Therefore, eliminating them from the diet would not be beneficial for improving iron absorption.
C.The recommendation the nurse should make to improve the absorption of the iron supplement (ferrous sulfate) is to avoid drinking milk with the medication. Calcium in milk can interfere with the absorption of iron, so it is best to separate the consumption of these two substances.
D.Green tea contains compounds called tannins, which can interfere with iron absorption. Therefore, it is not recommended to take iron supplements with green tea.
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