Iron Supplements Mnemonic for Nursing Pharmacology (NCLEX)

Summary

This video provides an informative guide on iron supplementation, explaining its use in treating iron deficiency anemia. The script uses vivid imagery, such as a rusty iron pan and cranberry juice, to explain key points. It covers the benefits of iron, side effects like constipation and black tarry stools, and tips for mitigating issues like tooth discoloration and gastrointestinal upset. Additionally, the video emphasizes the importance of avoiding dairy products while taking iron and encourages the consumption of vitamin C-rich foods to enhance absorption. The overall goal is to prepare viewers for the NCLEX with practical advice on administering iron supplements.

Takeaways

• 😀 Iron is essential in treating iron deficiency anemia, as it is a component of hemoglobin in red blood cells.
• 😀 Iron supplementation may cause constipation; encourage a high-fiber diet, exercise, and hydration to manage it.
• 😀 Black tarry stools are a harmless and expected side effect of iron supplementation, not to be confused with blood in the stool.
• 😀 Liquid iron can cause tooth discoloration; recommend drinking it through a straw and rinsing the mouth afterward.
• 😀 Iron supplementation may cause gastrointestinal upset, such as nausea and vomiting, which can be alleviated by taking it with a small amount of food.
• 😀 Iron should not be taken with calcium or dairy products, as calcium reduces iron absorption.
• 😀 Vitamin C increases the absorption of iron, so patients should take iron with foods high in vitamin C, like citrus fruits or juices.
• 😀 Iron is best absorbed on an empty stomach, but a small amount of food can reduce gastrointestinal discomfort.
• 😀 Patients should be informed about the expected side effects of iron, like black stools and nausea, to prevent unnecessary alarm.
• 😀 For effective iron absorption, patients should avoid drinking milk and focus on vitamin C-rich foods to enhance iron uptake.

Q & A

What is the primary role of iron in the body?

Iron is a key component of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body.

Why is iron supplementation commonly prescribed?

Iron supplementation is prescribed to treat iron deficiency anemia, a condition where there is a lack of red blood cells due to insufficient iron for hemoglobin production.

What is a common side effect of iron supplementation?

Constipation is a common side effect of iron supplementation.

How can patients prevent constipation when taking iron supplements?

Patients can prevent constipation by eating a high-fiber diet, staying hydrated, and exercising regularly.

What does the black tarry stool symbolize in the video?

The black tarry stool symbolizes an expected and harmless side effect of iron supplementation, which can cause stools to turn black due to the iron.

What should nurses inform patients about black tarry stools?

Nurses should inform patients that black tarry stools are a harmless side effect of iron supplementation and are not a cause for concern.

How can liquid iron cause tooth discoloration?

Liquid iron can cause tooth discoloration if it comes into contact with the teeth. To prevent this, patients should drink it through a straw, dilute it in water or juice, and rinse their mouth afterward.

What gastrointestinal issues can iron supplementation cause?

Iron supplementation can cause nausea and vomiting. Taking iron with a small amount of food may help reduce these symptoms.

Why should iron not be taken with milk or dairy products?

Milk and dairy products contain calcium, which can decrease the absorption of iron in the gastrointestinal tract.

Which foods or substances should be encouraged to enhance iron absorption?

Foods high in vitamin C, such as citrus fruits and juices, should be encouraged as they help increase iron absorption.