Editing Nutrition – LPN Practice Questions (section)

==Question 14==
The LPN is reinforcing teaching for a client who is starting a ferrous sulfate supplement for iron deficiency anemia. Which statement by the client indicates correct understanding?
# "I will take my iron pill with a glass of milk to protect my stomach."
# "I will take my iron pill with a glass of orange juice."
# "I should stop the iron if my stools turn dark."
# "I will take my iron pill at the same time as my antacid."

'''Answer:''' 2. "I will take my iron pill with a glass of orange juice."

''Rationale:'' Vitamin C converts iron to a form that is more readily absorbed, so taking iron with orange juice or another vitamin C source increases absorption. Options 1 and 4 are wrong because calcium in milk and the minerals in antacids bind iron and reduce absorption; iron should be separated from dairy, antacids, calcium supplements, tea, and coffee by at least 1 to 2 hours. Option 3 is wrong because dark or black stools are an expected, harmless effect of oral iron and are not a reason to stop the drug. The LPN should also reinforce increasing fluid and fiber for constipation and should report any signs of true gastrointestinal bleeding, such as bloody or tarry stools with dizziness or abdominal pain, to the RN.