A pregnant teenage patient is diagnosed with iron-deficiency anemia. Which nutrient should the nurse encourage her to take to increase iron absorption?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Vitamin C has been shown to enhance absorption of non-heme iron (the type of iron found in plant-based foods and supplements) by reducing it to a more absorbable form in the gut. Therefore, the nurse should encourage the pregnant teenage patient to take vitamin C-rich foods or supplements to increase iron absorption. Vitamin A, D, and E do not have a significant effect on iron absorption.

A Pregnant Teenage Patient Is Diagnosed with Iron-Deficiency Anemia