Which should the nurse include when teaching the mother of a 9-month-old infant about administering liquid iron preparations?

A) They should be given with meals.
B) They should be stopped immediately if nausea and vomiting occur.
C) Adequate dosage will turn the stools a tarry green color.
D) Allow preparation to mix with saliva and bathe the teeth before swallowing.

The nurse should prepare the mother for the anticipated change in the child's stools. If the iron dose is adequate, the stools will become a tarry green color. The lack of the color change may indicate insufficient iron. The iron should be given in two divided doses between meals when the presence of free hydrochloric acid is greatest. Iron is absorbed best in an acidic environment. Vomiting and diarrhea may occur with iron administration. If these occur, the iron should be given with meals, and the dosage reduced, then gradually increased as the child develops tolerance. Liquid preparations of iron stain the teeth. They should be administered through a straw and the mouth rinsed after administration.