What should a nurse instruct a pregnant client with anemia to do to enhance iron absorption?

Drinking orange juice with an iron supplement is an effective strategy for enhancing iron absorption due to the presence of vitamin C in the juice. Vitamin C significantly boosts the absorption of non-heme iron, which is the type of iron found in plant-based foods and supplements. This synergistic relationship helps convert iron into a form that is more readily absorbed by the intestines, making it beneficial for individuals, particularly pregnant clients, who are managing anemia.

While the other options may provide various health benefits, they do not specifically enhance iron absorption in the same way that combining iron with vitamin C does. For instance, taking iron and calcium together can inhibit iron absorption, as calcium competes with iron for absorption in the gut. Thus, it's generally recommended to separate the intake of these two nutrients. Including fresh fruit in the diet is healthy but does not specifically target iron absorption. Similarly, while consuming calcium-rich foods is important for overall health, especially during pregnancy, it does not aid in the absorption of iron when consumed simultaneously.