A patient with iron deficiency anemia who is taking oral iron supplements is evaluated by the nurse in the outpatient clinic. Which finding by the nurse is of MOST concern?
The patient takes a multivitamin tablet everyday
The patient takes an antacid with the iron to avoid nausea
The patient reports stools are black
The patient complains of occasional constipation
The Correct Answer is B
A. While taking a multivitamin can provide additional nutrients, it is generally not a cause for concern unless the multivitamin contains high doses of certain minerals that might interact negatively with iron absorption. However, this is less pressing compared to the interaction between antacids and iron.
B. Antacids can significantly interfere with the absorption of oral iron supplements, leading to inadequate treatment of iron deficiency anemia. This is the most concerning finding because it may negate the effectiveness of the iron supplementation, making it harder for the patient to improve their iron levels.
C. Black stools are a common and expected side effect of iron supplementation due to the presence of unabsorbed iron in the gastrointestinal tract. While the nurse should monitor for this, it is not inherently concerning as it indicates that the iron is being ingested.
D. Constipation is a common side effect of iron supplements. Although it can be uncomfortable, it is not as critical as the potential interference caused by taking antacids. Management strategies can often alleviate this side effect.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. While it’s important to provide reassurance, this option does not directly address the acute symptoms of respiratory distress and hypotension. Monitoring blood pressure is essential, but immediate action to treat the underlying issue is more critical.
B. This is the priority intervention in the case of suspected anaphylaxis. Epinephrine acts quickly to counteract severe allergic reactions, relieving bronchospasm, increasing heart rate, and raising blood pressure. Given the patient's wheezing and hypotension, administering epinephrine is crucial.
C. Administering oxygen can be beneficial, especially if the patient is experiencing respiratory distress. However, it does not address the potential anaphylactic reaction or the drop in blood pressure directly. It should be part of the management but not the priority.
D. Elevating the head of the bed can help improve breathing, especially if the patient is in respiratory distress. However, this action alone does not address the potential life-threatening aspects of anaphylaxis.
Correct Answer is ["B","C","D"]
Explanation
A. This is primarily associated with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), not Rheumatoid Arthritis. While some RA patients may have skin changes, a malar rash is not a typical manifestation of RA.
B. Morning stiffness is a hallmark symptom of Rheumatoid Arthritis. Patients often experience stiffness in their joints after periods of inactivity, particularly in the morning, which typically lasts for at least 30 minutes and can improve with movement.
C. Swan neck deformities are specific joint deformities seen in RA, where there is hyperextension of the proximal interphalangeal joints and flexion of the distal interphalangeal joints. This is a common feature in advanced cases of RA.
D. : RA typically presents with symmetrical joint involvement. This means that if one side is affected, the opposite side is likely to be similarly affected, leading to bilateral joint deformities.
E. While joint pain can occur at rest, RA is more characterized by pain and stiffness during periods of inactivity and improvement with movement. However, as the disease progresses, patients may experience pain even at rest.
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