A student nurse is caring for a client with iron deficiency anemia who is newly prescribed ferrous sulfate. Which action by the student nurse requires the supervising nurse to intervene?

Question

A student nurse is caring for a client with iron deficiency anemia who is newly prescribed ferrous sulfate.  Which action by the student nurse requires the supervising nurse to intervene?

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Ferrous sulfate is an oral iron supplement prescribed to prevent or treat iron deficiency anemia, which occurs when the body lacks sufficient iron, an essential mineral in the formation of new RBCs. Low iron levels may result from malabsorption, insufficient intake, increased requirements (eg, pregnancy), or blood loss. The nurse should avoid administering calcium supplements or antacids with or within 1 hour of ferrous sulfate because calcium decreases iron absorption (Option D). (Option A) Taking an iron supplement increases the client's risk for constipation. Instructing the client to increase fluid intake during therapy may help prevent hard stools. (Options B and C) Taking an iron supplement with vitamin C (eg, orange juice) further enhances duodenal acidity and increases absorption. An acid-rich environment enhances iron absorption, so oral supplements should be taken 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals. Educational objective: Ferrous sulfate is an oral iron supplement prescribed to prevent or treat iron deficiency anemia. The nurse should administer the medication 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals because it is best absorbed in an acidic environment. Antacids or calcium supplements decrease absorption of iron if administered with or within 1 hour of ferrous sulfate.

A Student Nurse Is Caring for a Client with Iron