Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 66%
Simulated
The nurse receives the following order: 'Ferrous sulfate 325 mg four times a day PO. Give on empty stomach.' Even before debating, the nurse guesses that this is because the medication:
Correct answer
A
Rationale
The correct answer is A because ferrous sulfate is better absorbed in an acidic environment, which is present in an empty stomach. Food can interfere with the absorption of iron, so giving it on an empty stomach helps maximize absorption. Choice B is incorrect because constipation is a common side effect of iron supplements but not the reason for giving it on an empty stomach. Choice C is incorrect as ferrous sulfate is not known to directly irritate the gastric mucosa. Choice D is incorrect because the acidic environment in the stomach actually aids in the absorption of iron.