Ferrous sulfate elixir is prescribed for a client with iron deficiency anemia. Which instruction should the nurse provide this client about taking the liquid medication?
Use a straw to ingest.
Swallow undiluted.
Mix with an antacid.
Take with a glass of milk.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A Reason:
Use a straw to ingest: Ferrous sulfate elixir can cause staining of the teeth. Using a straw helps to minimize contact with the teeth, thereby reducing the risk of staining. This method ensures that the medication is ingested directly into the throat, bypassing the teeth.

Choice B Reason:
Swallow undiluted: Swallowing ferrous sulfate elixir undiluted is not recommended because it can cause gastrointestinal irritation. Diluting the elixir in water or juice can help to minimize this irritation and improve absorption.
Choice C Reason:
Mix with an antacid: Mixing ferrous sulfate with an antacid is not advisable because antacids can interfere with the absorption of iron. Iron is best absorbed in an acidic environment, and antacids neutralize stomach acid, thereby reducing iron absorption.
Choice D Reason:
Take with a glass of milk: Taking ferrous sulfate with milk is not recommended because calcium in milk can inhibit the absorption of iron. It is best to take iron supplements on an empty stomach or with a source of vitamin C, such as orange juice, to enhance absorption
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Calcium acetate is not used to lower potassium levels. Potassium levels in the blood are typically managed through dietary restrictions, medications like potassium binders, and dialysis in patients with CKD. The normal range for blood potassium levels is 3.5 to 5.2 mEq/L for adults.
Choice B reason:
Calcium acetate can increase calcium levels in the blood, not decrease them. It is important to monitor calcium levels to avoid hypercalcemia, which can lead to complications such as vascular calcification and cardiac issues. The normal range for blood calcium levels is 8.6 to 10.2 mg/dL.
Choice C reason:
Calcium acetate is used to lower phosphate levels in patients with CKD. It works by binding to dietary phosphate in the intestines, forming insoluble calcium phosphate that is excreted in the stool. This helps prevent hyperphosphatemia, a common issue in CKD patients. The normal range for blood phosphate levels is 2.5 to 4.5 mg/dL.

Choice D reason:
Calcium acetate does not directly affect blood pH levels. Blood pH is regulated by the kidneys and lungs, and the normal range is 7.35 to 7.45. While CKD can affect acid-base balance, calcium acetate’s primary role is to manage phosphate levels.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: While it is true that breastfeeding is not recommended while taking isotretinoin due to the potential for adverse effects on the infant, this is not the most critical information for a client planning to become pregnant. The primary concern is the teratogenic effects of isotretinoin, which can cause severe birth defects.
Choice B reason: Advising the client not to take multiple vitamins that contain vitamin A while on isotretinoin is important because excessive vitamin A can increase the risk of toxicity. However, this is not the most crucial information for someone planning to become pregnant. The teratogenic risks of isotretinoin are a higher priority.
Choice C reason: Obtaining baseline liver function results is necessary during isotretinoin therapy due to the potential for hepatotoxicity. Regular monitoring helps ensure the liver is functioning properly. However, this information is secondary to the need to avoid pregnancy while on isotretinoin due to its severe teratogenic effects.
Choice D reason: Discontinuing isotretinoin one month before attempting to conceive is the most important information. Isotretinoin is highly teratogenic and can cause serious birth defects. It is crucial to stop the medication well before conception to ensure it is completely cleared from the body, reducing the risk of harm to the fetus.
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