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?

A) Feverfew may interact with aspirin or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs: This information is crucial to include in the teaching plan because feverfew has been reported to interact with medications such as aspirin and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), potentially increasing the risk of bleeding. Clients need to be aware of potential drug interactions to prevent adverse effects and ensure safe use of feverfew.

B) Those with allergies to chamomile, ragweed, or yarrow should not take feverfew: While this is important information to consider, it may not be as immediately relevant to the client's current situation of experiencing fewer headaches with feverfew use. However, it is still important to assess for allergies and sensitivities to prevent allergic reactions.

C) Increased anxiety and nervousness have been reported by those taking feverfew: Although this is a potential side effect of feverfew, it may not be the most important information to include in the teaching plan for a client who is experiencing fewer headaches with feverfew use. The focus should be on the client's positive response to the herbal remedy and potential interactions with other medications.

D) Abdominal pain, gas, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea can occur when taking feverfew: While this is important information regarding potential side effects of feverfew, it may not be as immediately relevant to the client's current situation of experiencing fewer headaches with feverfew use. However, clients should be informed about possible adverse effects to monitor for and report to their healthcare provider if they occur.

1. Recommend use of an over-the-counter antipyretic: While treating fever with an antipyretic like acetaminophen or ibuprofen may provide symptomatic relief, the priority in this scenario is to assess for other adverse effects of the medication. Fever can be a sign of an allergic reaction or other adverse effects to the antibiotic. Therefore, it is important to first assess for other symptoms before recommending symptomatic treatment.

B) Determine if other adverse effects have developed: This is the correct answer. The onset of a low-grade fever after starting a new medication, such as amoxicillin, warrants further assessment for other adverse effects. The nurse should inquire about other symptoms the client may be experiencing, such as rash, itching, swelling, difficulty breathing, or gastrointestinal disturbances, which could indicate an allergic reaction or other adverse effects.

C) Ask if the medication has been kept refrigerated: While it is important to ensure proper storage of medications, such as amoxicillin, which may require refrigeration, the onset of a low-grade fever is not typically related to medication storage. Therefore, this action would not address the client’s current symptoms and concerns.

D) Instruct the client to increase oral fluid intake: While maintaining adequate hydration is important for overall health and may help manage symptoms of illness, such as fever, the priority in this scenario is to assess for other adverse effects of the medication. Therefore, increasing oral fluid intake alone would not address the potential adverse effects of amoxicillin.