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 A
Explanation
A. PT (Prothrombin Time) and INR (International Normalized Ratio) are tests primarily used to evaluate blood coagulation and the effectiveness of anticoagulant therapy. While they can provide some insight into a patient's overall health, they are not specific indicators of inflammation.
B. CRP is a protein produced by the liver in response to inflammation. It is a well-established marker for detecting acute inflammation and is commonly used in clinical settings to assess inflammatory conditions.
C. ESR measures how quickly red blood cells settle at the bottom of a test tube. An elevated ESR is a classic indicator of inflammation in the body and is commonly used in diagnosing various inflammatory conditions.
D. Procalcitonin is a biomarker that can indicate bacterial infections and systemic inflammation. It is increasingly used in clinical practice to assess the severity of infection and inflammation, particularly in cases of sepsis.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. This statement indicates some understanding of self-care, as using gentle hair products can help minimize irritation. However, it's not specifically focused on the most critical aspects of SLE management related to skin care.
B. Clients with SLE should inspect their skin regularly, not just once a month, as they are at a higher risk for rashes and skin lesions. More frequent self-assessment can help catch any changes early.
C. Clients with SLE are generally advised to avoid tanning beds altogether, as ultraviolet (UV) exposure can exacerbate skin rashes and trigger flares of the disease. Limiting exposure to UV light is essential for managing lupus.
D. Applying powder to a rash may not be advisable, as it could irritate the skin further. Clients should be taught to keep the affected areas clean and follow their healthcare provider's recommendations for treating rashes.
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