Question

A nurse is collecting data from a child who has iron deficiency anemia. Which of the following data signifies that adherence to ferrous sulfate therapy has occured?

(a) The child's hemoglobin level has increased.

(b) The child's stool is black.

(c) The child's parents report that the child has been taking their medication as prescribed.

(d) The child's blood iron level has increased.

Answer 1

The child's hemoglobin level increasing is a sign of adherence to ferrous sulfate therapy in iron deficiency anemia.

Step-by-step explanation:

To determine adherence to ferrous sulfate therapy in a child with iron deficiency anemia, several data points can be considered. The child's hemoglobin level increasing (option a) would indicate a positive response to the therapy. This is because hemoglobin is the protein responsible for carrying oxygen in red blood cells, and iron is a crucial component of hemoglobin.

On the other hand, options b, c, and d are not direct indicators of adherence to the therapy. The child's stool turning black (option b) is a side effect of iron supplementation, while the child's parents reporting medication adherence (option c) is subjective and may not accurately reflect actual adherence. Lastly, the child's blood iron level increasing (option d) is expected if the therapy is effective, but it does not confirm adherence specifically.