A nurse is caring for a female client in a clinic. Exhibits A nurse is planning to provide teaching to the client about the new prescription. For each teaching statement made by the nurse, click to specify if the teaching statement is indicated or contraindicated for the client.
Explanation & Rationale
"It is expected for your stools to be black while taking this medication." Iron supplements, like ferrous sulfate, commonly cause black stools as a harmless side effect. Clients should be educated about this to avoid unnecessary concern. "Take this medication with an antacid if you experience heartburn from the medication.": Antacids should not be taken with iron supplements. Antacids can decrease the absorption of iron, making the supplement less effective. It is important to avoid combining these two. "Drinking orange juice with this medication decreases the absorption of the medication." In fact, drinking orange juice (which is high in vitamin C) with iron supplements can enhance the absorption of iron. Clients should be encouraged to take iron with vitamin C for better absorption. "You can take this medication with meals if you experience discomfort when taking on an empty stomach.": It is acceptable to take iron supplements with meals to reduce stomach irritation, though absorption may be slightly reduced. The client should take it as tolerated to ensure compliance with the treatment regimen.