A female client taking a liquid iron preparation expresses concern that her tooth color has darkened since starting the medication. Which action should the practical nurse (PN) implement?
Teach the client to use a straw when taking the medication to reduce further tooth staining.
Reassure the client that this change indicates the medication is having the desired effect.
Determine if the client is also experiencing mouth or gum pain and difficulty swallowing
Advise the client to withhold further doses until consulting with the healthcare provider.
The Correct Answer is A
The correct answer is choice a. Teach the client to use a straw when taking the medication to reduce further tooth staining.
Choice A rationale:
Using a straw when taking liquid iron preparations helps minimize contact with the teeth, thereby reducing the risk of staining.
Choice B rationale:
While tooth discoloration can indicate that the iron is being absorbed, it is not a desired effect and should be managed to prevent cosmetic concerns.
Choice C rationale:
Assessing for mouth or gum pain and difficulty swallowing is important but not directly related to the issue of tooth staining.
Choice D rationale:
Advising the client to withhold doses without consulting a healthcare provider could lead to non-compliance and inadequate treatment of iron deficiency.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Urinary output is not directly related to stomatitis, which is inflammation of the mouth and throat. While monitoring urinary output is important in many situations, it is not relevant in this case.
Choice B rationale:
Blood pressure while standing is not directly related to stomatitis either. This assessment is more relevant for conditions such as orthostatic hypotension, which can cause a drop in blood pressure upon standing.
Choice C rationale:
Ability to swallow is crucial in the context of stomatitis. Stomatitis can cause painful sores in the mouth, making it difficult for the client to eat or drink. Assessing the client's ability to swallow will help determine the impact of stomatitis on their nutritional intake and overall well-being.
Choice D rationale:
Frequency of bowel movements is unrelated to stomatitis. This assessment is more relevant for gastrointestinal issues or constipation, not for a condition affecting the mouth and throat.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
This is the best action for the PN to take because it provides reality orientation and helps the client cope with the change in environment. The client may be experiencing acute confusion or delirium due to stress, medication, infection, or other factors. The PN should remind the client of the date, time, and place frequently and use other strategies such as calendars, clocks, and familiar objects to reduce confusion.

A. Documenting the client's loss of memory in the record is not enough and does not address the client's needs.
B. Notifying the family of the change in the client's condition is not a priority and may not be necessary if the confusion is temporary or reversible.
D. Encouraging the client to rest during the day is not appropriate and may worsen the confusion or disrupt the sleep-wake cycle.
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