A nurse is teaching a client who has a prescription for ferrous gluconate. Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?
"I should take this medication with 8 ounces of milk."
I should take an antacid with this medication to prevent stomach upset."
"I should notify my provider if my stools turn black"
I should stay upright for at least 15 minutes after taking this medication
The Correct Answer is C
A. "I should take this medication with 8 ounces of milk." This statement is incorrect. Calcium-containing substances, such as milk, can interfere with the absorption of iron. It's generally recommended to take iron supplements on an empty stomach or with vitamin C-containing foods to enhance absorption.
B. "I should take an antacid with this medication to prevent stomach upset." This statement is also incorrect. Antacids can reduce the absorption of iron. It's advisable to take iron supplements separately from antacids to optimize absorption.
C. "I should notify my provider if my stools turn black." (Correct Answer) This statement is correct. Iron supplements can cause stools to appear black or dark green. This is a common and harmless side effect related to the change in the color of iron in the gastrointestinal tract. However, it's important for the client to notify the healthcare provider to rule out any potential bleeding issues.
D. "I should stay upright for at least 15 minutes after taking this medication." This statement is not specific to ferrous gluconate. However, it may be relevant for medications that can cause esophageal irritation or reflux. In the case of ferrous gluconate, the primary concern is optimizing absorption by taking it on an empty stomach or with vitamin C-containing foods.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. I will check the client's INR before administering the heparin:
Checking the International Normalized Ratio (INR) is more relevant for monitoring the effects of warfarin, not heparin. Heparin is typically monitored by activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) or anti-Xa levels.
B. "I will apply pressure for 1 minute after the injection:"
Applying gentle pressure to the injection site for about 1 minute after administering heparin is appropriate to prevent bleeding or bruising. Since heparin is an anticoagulant, there's an increased risk of bleeding at the injection site.
C. I will massage the site after injecting the heparin:
Massaging the site after injecting heparin is not recommended. It can increase the risk of hematoma formation. After subcutaneous injection, it is generally advised to avoid massaging the site.
D. I will aspirate before administering the heparin:
Aspiration is not recommended when administering heparin subcutaneously, as it can increase the risk of tissue damage and bruising. The nurse should inject the heparin without aspirating.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Withhold the medication: An INR of 2.5 is generally within the therapeutic range for many conditions, including atrial fibrillation. Withholding the medication might lead to a decreased INR, potentially increasing the risk of clotting.
B. Decrease the dose of the medication: If the INR is above the therapeutic range (usually 2.0-3.0 for atrial fibrillation), the provider might consider decreasing the dose. However, an INR of 2.5 is within the typical therapeutic range, so a decrease in dose might not be warranted.
C. Increase the dose of the medication: An INR of 2.5 is generally within the therapeutic range for many conditions. Increasing the dose in this situation could elevate the INR further, potentially leading to an increased risk of bleeding.
D. Administer the current dose of the medication: Since the INR is within the therapeutic range, the nurse should expect the provider to maintain the current dose of warfarin. Adjustments to the dose might be considered if the INR deviates significantly from the target range.
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