A nurse in a pediatric clinic is caring for a child who has iron deficiency anemia and a new prescription for ferrous sulfate tablets. Which of the following instructions should the nurse provide the parents regarding the administration of this medication?
Iron (Ferrous Sulfate) may turn stools tarry green.
Administer at bedtime.
Give with a 240 mL (8 oz) glass of milk.
Administer at mealtimes.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A: This instruction is correct, as iron supplements can cause a change in the color and consistency of stools, making them dark, green, or black. This is not a sign of bleeding or infection, but a normal side effect of iron therapy. The parents should be informed of this possibility and reassured that it is harmless.
Choice B: This instruction is incorrect, as iron supplements should not be administered at bedtime, but rather one hour before or two hours after meals. This is because iron absorption is reduced by food, especially dairy products, antacids, or calcium supplements. The parents should be instructed to give the medication on an empty stomach or with a small amount of food if it causes nausea.
Choice C: This instruction is incorrect, as iron supplements should not be given with milk, as milk contains calcium, which can interfere with iron absorption and reduce its effectiveness. The parents should be instructed to avoid giving milk or other dairy products within two hours of the medication.
Choice D: This instruction is incorrect, as iron supplements should not be administered at mealtimes, but rather one hour before or two hours after meals. This is because iron absorption is reduced by food, especially dairy products, antacids, or calcium supplements. The parents should be instructed to give the medication on an empty stomach or with a small amount of food if it causes nausea.

Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A: This action is appropriate for a 10-year-old child who will be hospitalized for an extended period of time, as it meets their psychosocial needs according to Erikson's stage of industry versus inferiority. In this stage, which occurs from age 6 to 12 years, children develop a sense of competence and achievement by mastering skills and tasks that are valued by society. Encouraging the client to complete school work can help them maintain their academic progress and self-esteem.
Choice B: This action is not appropriate for a 10-year-old child who will be hospitalized for an extended period of time, as it does not meet their psychosocial needs according to Erikson's stage of industry versus inferiority. In this stage, which occurs from age 6 to 12 years, children need consistency and structure to develop a sense of competence and achievement. Varying the child's schedule each day can cause confusion and stress for them.
Choice C: This action is not appropriate for a 10-year-old child who will be hospitalized for an extended period of time, as it does not meet their psychosocial needs according to Erikson's stage of industry versus inferiority. In this stage, which occurs from age 6 to 12 years, children need opportunities to master skills and tasks that are valued by society. Providing a daily session with a play therapist can help them cope with their emotions and fears, but it does not help them develop their competence and achievement.
Choice D: This action is not appropriate for a 10-year-old child who will be hospitalized for an extended period of time, as it does not meet their psychosocial needs according to Erikson's stage of industry versus inferiority. In this stage, which occurs from age 6 to 12 years, children need social support and peer interaction to develop a sense of competence and achievement. Discouraging visits from the client's friends can cause isolation and depression for them.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A: Cranberry juice is not a suitable fluid item to offer the child at this time, as it is acidic and can irritate the throat and cause pain or bleeding. Cranberry juice can also stain the surgical site and make it difficult to assess for signs of hemorrhage.
Choice B: Crushed ice is a suitable fluid item to offer the child at this time, as it is cold and can soothe the throat and
reduce swelling or inflammation. Crushed ice can also hydrate the child and prevent dehydration.
Choice C: Orange juice is not a suitable fluid item to offer the child at this time, as it is acidic and can irritate the throat and cause pain or bleeding. Orange juice can also interfere with the clotting process and increase the risk of hemorrhage.
Choice D: A strawberry milkshake is not a suitable fluid item to offer the child at this time, as it contains dairy products and can increase mucus production and cause coughing or gagging. A strawberry milkshake can also stain the surgical site and make it difficult to assess for signs of hemorrhage.

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