Question

After determining that a two-and-half-year-old patient has a lead level of 16 mcg/dL, the family nurse practitioner:

1. advises the parent to avoid giving the patient bottles of whole milk.
2. consults with a physical therapist for muscle strengthening.
3. observes for signs of diminished reflexes on the physical exam.
4. orders an increase of iron supplements to 6 mg/kg per day divided in two doses.

Answer 1

The family nurse practitioner would most likely advise the parent to avoid giving the patient bottles of whole milk. Iron supplements may be recommended, but further information is needed. Options 2 and 3 can be ruled out.

Step-by-step explanation:

Based on the information provided, the family nurse practitioner would most likely advise the parent to avoid giving the patient bottles of whole milk. Lead poisoning is caused by exposure to lead, and one of the potential sources of lead exposure is contaminated water. Since whole milk can be a source of lead, it is important to avoid giving it to the patient to prevent further lead exposure.

Iron supplements may be recommended to treat lead poisoning, as iron can help inhibit the absorption of lead or protect the body from its damaging effects. However, the information provided does not mention any symptoms of lead poisoning in the patient, so it cannot be determined if an increase in iron supplements would be necessary.

The information provided does not indicate any signs of diminished reflexes or the need for muscle strengthening, so options 2 and 3 can be ruled out.