Question

A client has iron deficiency anemia and an order for iron to be administered IV push. Which nursing intervention is most important to safely administer the drug? A. Assessing the client's hemoglobin level B. Ensuring that the client has a systolic BP of \(>120\) C. Finding out the date of the client's last bowel movement D. Administering a small test dose prior to the full dose

Short answer

Answer: Administering a small test dose prior to the full dose.

Step-by-step solution

Analyze the situation

In this scenario, a client with iron deficiency anemia requires intravenous (IV) administration of iron. We must understand that iron infusions can pose risks like allergic reactions and monitoring the patient is crucial during the administration.

Evaluate each option

A. Assessing the client's hemoglobin level: This is relevant as it helps determine the severity of anemia. However, it does not directly ensure the safe administration of the drug. B. Ensuring that the client has a systolic BP of \(>120\): While monitoring blood pressure is always important, there is no specific guideline advising that a systolic BP of \(>120\) must be maintained for safe iron administration. C. Finding out the date of the client's last bowel movement: Although constipation can be a side effect of iron supplements, knowing about bowel movement doesn't help in safe drug administration. D. Administering a small test dose prior to the full dose: This is more relevant to ensuring safe administration of the medication, as it allows the nurse to monitor the patient for any adverse reactions, assessing the patient's tolerance and response before administering the full dose.

Choose the most important nursing intervention

The most important nursing intervention for safely administering the iron IV push to a client with iron deficiency anemia is option D, administering a small test dose prior to the full dose. This allows the nurse to assess the patient's response and tolerance to the medication, helping to identify potential adverse reactions and ensuring a safer administration process.