A nurse in a pediatric clinic is caring for a child who has iron deficiency anemia and a new prescription for ferrous sulfate tablets. Which of the following instructions should the nurse provide the parents regarding administration of this medication?

A. Administer at mealtimes: Giving iron with meals decreases gastrointestinal irritation but also reduces absorption significantly. Optimal administration is on an empty stomach or with vitamin C–rich fluids to enhance absorption. B. Administer at bedtime: Timing at bedtime does not enhance iron absorption or reduce adverse effects. Bedtime administration may even worsen gastrointestinal discomfort while the child is lying down. C. Give with orange juice: Vitamin C in orange juice enhances the absorption of iron in the gastrointestinal tract. This improves the effectiveness of ferrous sulfate therapy in treating iron deficiency anemia. D. Give with a 240 mL (8 oz) glass of milk: Milk contains calcium, which interferes with iron absorption. Administering ferrous sulfate with milk would reduce its therapeutic benefit and should be avoided.