A client is starting a new prescription for ferrous sulfate. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In the context of pharmacology, the correct answer for a client starting a new prescription for ferrous sulfate is option C: Take the medication with orange juice to enhance absorption. Ferrous sulfate is an iron supplement commonly prescribed to treat or prevent iron deficiency anemia. Orange juice, or other sources of vitamin C, can help enhance the absorption of iron due to its acidic nature, which aids in converting iron into a more absorbable form. Option A, taking the medication with meals, is not ideal for ferrous sulfate as it may decrease absorption due to interactions with food components like calcium and tannins. Option B, taking the medication on an empty stomach, might cause gastrointestinal upset in some individuals. Option D, taking the medication with a full glass of milk, is incorrect because calcium in milk can interfere with the absorption of iron. Educationally, it is crucial for nurses and healthcare professionals to understand the impact of food and beverages on medication absorption to ensure optimal therapeutic outcomes for their patients. Providing accurate instructions on how to take medications can significantly influence treatment effectiveness and patient compliance.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: A decrease in hemoglobin A1C is a more specific indicator of metformin's effectiveness in controlling blood glucose levels over a longer period compared to fasting blood glucose levels. Hemoglobin A1C reflects average blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months, providing a more comprehensive view of glycemic control.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In the context of pharmacology and the prescription of furosemide, it is crucial for the nurse to include the instruction for the client to weigh themselves daily. Furosemide is a loop diuretic that works by increasing the elimination of water and electrolytes through the urine, which can lead to fluid loss and potential dehydration. Daily weight monitoring helps to track any sudden changes in weight, which could indicate fluid retention or loss and provide valuable information about the effectiveness and safety of the medication. Option B, limiting sodium intake, is a general dietary guideline that can be beneficial for overall health but is not directly related to furosemide therapy. While reducing sodium intake can help manage conditions like hypertension, it is not a specific instruction for a client starting furosemide. Option C, increasing potassium intake, is not recommended with furosemide therapy. Furosemide can cause potassium depletion (hypokalemia) as it increases the excretion of potassium in the urine. Therefore, advising the client to increase potassium intake could potentially worsen this electrolyte imbalance. Option D, avoiding potassium-rich foods, is also not the best instruction. While it is important to monitor potassium levels due to the potential for hypokalemia with furosemide, completely avoiding potassium-rich foods can lead to other nutritional deficiencies and is not the standard recommendation for clients on furosemide. In an educational context, understanding the rationale behind each instruction is crucial for nurses to provide safe and effective care to clients. By explaining the reasons behind the correct instruction and why the other options are not appropriate, nurses can enhance their pharmacological knowledge and make informed decisions when caring for clients on furosemide therapy.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In educating a client newly prescribed with warfarin, the healthcare professional should prioritize emphasizing the importance of reporting any signs of bleeding to their healthcare provider, making option B the correct choice. Warfarin is an anticoagulant medication that works by inhibiting blood clotting factors, hence increasing the risk of bleeding. Prompt reporting of any signs of bleeding such as unexplained bruising, blood in urine or stool, or bleeding gums is crucial to prevent serious complications. Option A, which suggests avoiding foods high in vitamin K, is incorrect in this context. While vitamin K can interfere with warfarin's anticoagulant effects, it is essential for the healthcare provider to adjust the warfarin dosage to maintain a balance rather than avoiding these foods completely. Option C advises using a soft toothbrush to prevent gum bleeding, and option D recommends using an electric razor to prevent cuts. While these suggestions promote good practices to reduce the risk of bleeding in general, they are not as critical or directly related to the potential side effects of warfarin as reporting signs of bleeding promptly. In an educational context, understanding the rationale behind the correct answer helps the client comprehend the importance of monitoring for potential side effects of warfarin and taking appropriate action. This knowledge empowers the client to actively participate in their care and promotes medication safety and adherence.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The priority action when caring for a client with a wound infection is to obtain a wound specimen for culture before initiating antibiotic therapy. This step is crucial to identify the specific microorganism causing the infection, allowing for targeted antibiotic treatment. Reviewing WBC laboratory findings and applying a wound dressing are important steps but come after obtaining a wound specimen for culture to guide appropriate antibiotic therapy.