Which of the following should the nurse include when teaching a parent about the administration of ferrous sulfate to a 4-year-old child? (Select all that apply)

Choice A reason:

Compartment syndrome is a condition where increased pressure within a muscle compartment leads to decreased blood flow, which can cause muscle and nerve damage. It is typically associated with severe trauma, fractures, or crush injuries. The symptoms include severe pain, swelling, and decreased sensation or movement in the affected limb. In this case, the child’s symptoms of redness, swelling, and tenderness following a spider bite, along with an elevated WBC, are more indicative of an infection rather than compartment syndrome.

Choice B Reason:

Osteomyelitis is an infection of the bone, which can occur following an injury or infection elsewhere in the body. The symptoms include redness, swelling, tenderness, and pain in the affected area, along with fever and elevated WBC. Given the child’s history of a spider bite and the presence of redness, swelling, tenderness, and elevated WBC, osteomyelitis is the most likely diagnosis. The unremarkable X-ray does not rule out osteomyelitis, as early stages of the infection may not show changes on X-ray.

Choice C Reason:

Osteogenesis imperfecta, also known as brittle bone disease, is a genetic disorder characterized by fragile bones that break easily. It is not associated with infections or elevated WBC. The symptoms of osteogenesis imperfecta include frequent fractures, blue sclerae, and hearing loss. The child’s symptoms of redness, swelling, and tenderness following a spider bite, along with an elevated WBC, are not consistent with osteogenesis imperfecta.

Choice D Reason:

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is a type of arthritis that occurs in children. It is characterized by persistent joint inflammation, pain, and swelling. While JIA can cause joint tenderness and swelling, it is not typically associated with a recent injury or infection, such as a spider bite. Additionally, JIA does not usually cause elevated WBC. The child’s symptoms are more indicative of an infection, making osteomyelitis the more likely diagnosis.

Choice A reason:

Peanuts are not recommended for infants, especially those under one year of age, due to the risk of choking and potential allergies. Additionally, peanuts are not a significant source of iron and would not be effective in preventing iron deficiency anemia in infants. Therefore, this choice is not appropriate for preventing iron deficiency anemia in a 6-month-old infant.

Choice B reason:

Iron (ferrous sulfate) tablets are not typically recommended for infants unless prescribed by a healthcare provider. Infants who are exclusively breastfed or partially breastfed should receive iron supplementation starting at 4-6 months of age, but this is usually in the form of liquid drops rather than tablets. It is important to follow the guidance of a healthcare provider when administering iron supplements to infants.

Choice C reason:

Sautéed liver is a rich source of iron, but it is not suitable for a 6-month-old infant. Introducing solid foods to infants should be done gradually, starting with iron-fortified cereals and pureed fruits and vegetables. Liver can be introduced later as part of a balanced diet, but it is not the first choice for preventing iron deficiency anemia in a young infant.

Choice D reason:

Iron-fortified baby cereal is the recommended choice for preventing iron deficiency anemia in a 6-month-old infant who is still breastfeeding. These cereals are specifically designed to provide the necessary iron that infants need as they transition to solid foods. Starting with iron-fortified cereals helps ensure that the infant receives adequate iron to support healthy growth and development.