A Patient Will Be Taking Oral Iron Supplements at Home

A patient will be taking oral iron supplements at home. The nurse will include which statements in the teaching plan for this patient?

A) Take the iron tablets with meals to reduce GI upset.
B) Take the iron tablets on an empty stomach 1 hour before meals.
C) Take the iron tablets with an antacid to prevent heartburn.
D) Drink 8 ounces of milk with each iron dose.
E) Taking iron supplements with orange juice enhances iron absorption.
F) Stools may become loose and light in color.
G) Stools may become black and tarry.
H) Tablets may be crushed to enhance iron absorption.