When explaining to a pregnant client about the need to take supplemental vitamins with iron during her pregnancy, the nurse should instruct the client to take the iron with which liquid to promote maximum absorption?

• A. Milk.
• B. Water.
• C. Coffee.
• D. Orange juice.

Answer: (D)

Maximizing iron absorption relies on an acidic environment and vitamin C. Orange juice provides a good source of vitamin C, which helps convert iron to the more absorbable ferrous form and keeps it soluble in the gut, increasing how much iron the body can take in. In contrast, milk contains calcium that competes with iron absorption, coffee has polyphenols that bind iron and reduce its uptake, and plain water lacks any vitamin C to boost absorption. Therefore, taking the iron with orange juice is the best option to promote maximum absorption.