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Questions and Answers
Which of the following is NOT a risk factor for folic acid deficiency?
What is the primary role of folate in the body?
What clinical manifestation is commonly associated with folic acid deficiency?
Which laboratory test is essential for diagnosing folic acid deficiency?
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What complication can arise from folic acid deficiency?
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What is one important teaching point for patients regarding folic acid supplementation?
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Which symptom should be closely monitored in a patient with suspected folic acid deficiency?
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Which action is NOT appropriate when managing a patient with folic acid deficiency?
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Study Notes
Risk Factors
- Older adults, chronic illness, alcohol abuse, and extreme diets are at increased risk for folic acid deficiency
Pathophysiology
- Folate is essential for cellular maturation and replication
- Decreased intake of folate leads to deficiency
Clinical Manifestations
- Anemia, pallor, tachycardia, tachypnea, dizziness, fatigue, and increased risk of bleeding
Medical Management - Diagnosis
- Laboratory tests include complete blood count (CBC), serum folate levels, and serum methylmalonic acid (MMA)
Medical Management - Treatment
- Adequate folic acid intake through diet or supplementation
- Pregnant individuals require higher folate intake due to increased fetal development needs
Complications
- Confusion and disorientation
Nursing Management - Assessment and Analysis
- Assess for signs and symptoms of anemia, including decreased hemoglobin levels
Nursing Interventions - Assessments
- Monitor vital signs
- Assess for fatigue, pallor, shortness of breath, confusion, and disorientation
- Review laboratory test results
Nursing Interventions - Actions
- Ensure adequate folic acid intake through diet
- Administer folic acid supplements as prescribed
- Differentiate folic acid deficiency from vitamin B12 deficiency as supplementation of folic acid may reverse anemia but not neurological degeneration
Nursing Interventions - Teaching
- Educate patients on dietary sources of folate
- Instruct patients to report any signs and symptoms
- Provide prenatal teaching on the importance of folic acid supplementation
Nursing Management - Evaluating Care Outcomes
- Monitor changes in hemoglobin and folate levels
- Evaluate for resolution of fatigue and shortness of breath
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Description
This quiz covers the critical aspects of folic acid deficiency, including risk factors, clinical manifestations, medical management, and nursing interventions. It provides insights into how folate impacts health, particularly in vulnerable populations such as older adults and pregnant individuals.
