A nurse is providing teaching to a client who is about to begin using a PCA pump to deliver morphine for postoperative pain management. Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?

Rationale for Correct Choices

• Blood glucose: A blood glucose level of 250 mg/dL is critically elevated and puts the client at risk for complications such as delayed wound healing, infection, dehydration, and diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) if unmanaged. Hyperglycemia impairs immune function and must be addressed promptly to stabilize the client's condition and support healing.
• Wound : The draining, non-healing foot ulcer with purulent discharge indicates infection. However, uncontrolled glucose is a major contributing factor to poor wound healing and increased infection risk. Once glucose levels are addressed, wound care becomes the next critical focus to prevent systemic infection and further tissue damage.

Rationale for Incorrect Choices

• Temperature: While the client has a low-grade fever (38.3°C), which may be related to the infected wound, treating the source of infection and controlling glucose will have a greater and more direct impact on resolving the fever.
• Blood pressure: The blood pressure of 98/74 mm Hg is slightly low but not emergent and does not pose immediate risk. It can be monitored while more pressing concerns—like glucose and wound infection—are managed.
• WBC count: The WBC count of 9,500/mm³ is within normal limits. Although it helps in evaluating infection, it does not require direct intervention and is not a clinical priority compared to glucose control and wound care.

Rationale for Correct Choices:

• Increase sources of fiber in the diet: Iron supplements, particularly ferrous sulfate, commonly cause constipation. Increasing dietary fiber through fruits, vegetables, and whole grains helps promote bowel regularity and prevent this common side effect.
• Take the medication on an empty stomach: Iron is best absorbed in an acidic environment, and taking it on an empty stomach enhances its bioavailability. However, if gastrointestinal upset occurs, it may be taken with a small amount of food, but not with calcium-rich foods.
• Take the medication with a source of vitamin C: Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) enhances the absorption of non-heme iron. Consuming iron with a vitamin C-rich beverage or food, like orange juice, increases iron uptake and supports effective treatment of iron deficiency anemia.

Rationale for Incorrect Choices:

• Take an antacid within 30 min after medication administration: Antacids reduce stomach acidity, which impairs iron absorption. Iron requires an acidic environment to be absorbed effectively, so antacids should be avoided within 1–2 hours of iron administration.
• Increase intake of milk and dairy products: Calcium in dairy products can bind to iron and inhibit its absorption. Iron should not be taken with milk or calcium-rich foods to ensure optimal effectiveness of the supplement.