Understanding Anemia: Types, Causes, and Symptoms
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Questions and Answers

A patient's anemia is caused by a deficiency in intrinsic factor. Which type of anemia is the patient most likely experiencing?

  • Hemolytic anemia
  • Pernicious anemia (correct)
  • Aplastic anemia
  • Iron-deficiency anemia

A patient with anemia reports experiencing numbness and tingling in their hands and feet. Which vitamin deficiency is most likely contributing to these neurological symptoms?

  • Iron
  • Vitamin C
  • Folate
  • Vitamin B12 (correct)

A patient with a hemoglobin level of 9 g/dL is likely experiencing what level of anemia?

  • Severe
  • Mild
  • Critical
  • Moderate (correct)

When providing an iron supplement, what should the nurse recommend to enhance absorption?

<p>Take the supplement with a vitamin C-rich food or fluid (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the priority nursing intervention for a patient experiencing a drop in blood pressure and lightheadedness when moving from a lying to a standing position?

<p>Reduce the activity level (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with anemia has developed glossitis. What dietary modification would be most appropriate for this patient to improve comfort and promote healing?

<p>Choose soft, bland foods (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with iron deficiency anemia is prescribed an oral iron supplement. What instruction should the nurse provide regarding the timing of the medication administration?

<p>Take the supplement 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A nurse is caring for a patient with anemia and notes a significant increase in pulse and respiratory rate during ambulation. What action should the nurse take first?

<p>Reduce the activity level (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient is diagnosed with anemia due to folate deficiency. Which food would the nurse encourage the patient to include in their diet?

<p>Spinach (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with anemia reports experiencing constipation after starting iron supplements. What should the nurse recommend to alleviate this side effect?

<p>Increase fluid and fiber intake (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with pernicious anemia is prescribed vitamin B12 injections. Which statement by the patient indicates a correct understanding of their treatment plan?

<p>&quot;I will need to take these injections for the rest of my life.&quot; (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with anemia is scheduled for a bone marrow biopsy. What is the primary purpose of this diagnostic test in the context of anemia?

<p>To determine the cause of anemia (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What laboratory value should a nurse prioritize monitoring in a patient with anemia to assess the effectiveness of oxygen therapy?

<p>Oxygen saturation (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with iron deficiency anemia is prescribed an iron supplement in liquid form. What instruction should the nurse provide to prevent a common side effect?

<p>Sip the liquid iron through a drinking straw (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should a nurse assess when collecting data from a patient with anemia?

<p>Level of fatigue (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with anemia reports experiencing shortness of breath with minimal exertion. Which intervention is most appropriate for the nurse to include in the patient's plan of care?

<p>Administer oxygen as ordered (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with iron deficiency anemia is receiving intramuscular iron injections. Which technique is essential for the nurse to use during administration?

<p>Use the Z-track method (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient being evaluated for dementia is found to have a Vitamin B12 deficiency. Which pre-existing condition would the nurse suspect as a contributing factor?

<p>Diabetes managed with Metformin (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with a genetic predisposition to microcytic anemia reports frequent consumption of non-heme iron. What additional dietary recommendation would improve iron absorption?

<p>Increase intake of foods rich in Vitamin C (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A nurse is providing discharge teaching for a patient recovering from anemia. Which statement indicates the patient understands long-term prevention?

<p>&quot;I will modify my diet and take supplements as directed&quot; (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What statement best describes the pathophysiology of anemia?

<p>A condition in which circulating blood is deficient of RBCs, hemoglobin, or both (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which class of drugs interferes with the absorption of folate?

<p>Anticonvulsants (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which assessment finding would most likely be present in a patient with iron deficiency anemia?

<p>Spoon-shaped fingernails (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient is diagnosed with G6PD deficiency. What instruction is most important?

<p>Avoid fava beans (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A post-op bariatric patient is at high risk for which nutritional deficiency?

<p>Vitamin B12 (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient has a hemoglobin of 7.0. Which symptom would the nurse expect?

<p>Fatigue (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for red blood cells that are smaller than normal size?

<p>Microcytic (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the best description of pancytopenia?

<p>Reduced number of erythrocytes, leukocytes, an thrombocytes (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which anemia can cause irreparable neurological damage?

<p>Vitamin B12 deficiency (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient is diagnosed with Mediterranean-type glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency. From which geographic location did the patient likely originate?

<p>The Middle East (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with chronic kidney disease is at risk for microcytic anemia. What possible conditions might contribute to this risk?

<p>Blood loss and renal disease (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should the nurse consider when providing education for a pregnant patient regarding folate supplementation?

<p>Inadequate folate intake increase the risk for fetal neural tube defects (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which patient population may be at risk for Vitamin B12 deficiency?

<p>Strict vegetarians (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which term best describes inflammation of the tongue?

<p>Glossitis (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following foods would a nurse recommend to a patient looking to increase their iron intake through diet alone?

<p>Animal Meats (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the correct use of the term Hemolytic?

<p>Breakdown of blood (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient who has had part of the small intestine removed is most at risk for which condition?

<p>Vitamin B12 deficiency (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is the best definition of therapeutic phlebotomy?

<p>Planned blood removal (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which term best describes enlargement of the spleen?

<p>Splenomegaly (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with a history of Crohn's disease is being evaluated for anemia. Which mechanism is most likely contributing to the development of anemia in this patient?

<p>Impaired iron absorption in the ileum. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient has been diagnosed with anemia secondary to chronic kidney disease. What is the primary reason for the development of anemia in this patient population?

<p>Decreased erythropoietin production by the damaged kidneys. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with anemia is experiencing persistent fatigue that is impacting their ability to perform daily activities. What is the most appropriate initial nursing intervention to address this symptom?

<p>Educate the patient on energy conservation techniques and activity pacing. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with anemia is prescribed ferrous sulfate. What should the nurse include in the patient's education regarding the administration of this medication?

<p>Take the supplement on an empty stomach to maximize absorption. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with anemia reports experiencing constipation after starting iron supplements. Which intervention should the nurse recommend to the patient?

<p>Increase dietary fiber intake and fluid consumption. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with pernicious anemia is receiving vitamin B12 injections. How can the nurse evaluate the effectiveness of this treatment?

<p>Assess for improvement in neurological symptoms. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The nurse is caring for a patient with severe anemia. What is a priority nursing intervention?

<p>Monitoring oxygen saturation and providing supplemental oxygen as needed. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What dietary modification is most appropriate for a patient with glossitis due to anemia?

<p>Consume small, frequent meals of soft, bland foods. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with anemia is prescribed a liquid iron supplement. What instruction should the nurse provide to minimize a common side effect?

<p>Dilute the supplement and drink it through a straw. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with anemia is about to undergo a bone marrow biopsy. What key information should the nurse provide to the patient?

<p>The procedure helps determine the cause of the anemia. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with anemia reports increased shortness of breath with minimal exertion. Which action is most appropriate for the nurse to include in the patient's care plan?

<p>Schedule activities with frequent rest periods, cluster care. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The nurse is administering an intramuscular iron injection to a patient with iron deficiency anemia. Which technique is essential for the nurse to use?

<p>Use the Z-track method to prevent staining of the skin. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with chronic kidney disease is at risk for developing anemia. Which factor contributes most significantly to this risk?

<p>Decreased production of erythropoietin. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A pregnant patient is discussing folate supplementation with the nurse. What is the most important information to emphasize?

<p>Folate supplementation helps prevent neural tube defects in the fetus. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which patient population is at the highest risk for developing vitamin B12 deficiency?

<p>Elderly adults with atrophic gastritis. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient diagnosed with anemia is experiencing glossitis. Which intervention is most appropriate for managing this condition?

<p>Recommending the patient consume soft, bland foods. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient is looking to increase their iron intake through diet alone. What dietary sources would be most benificial?

<p>Dark leafy vegetables and legumes. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary mechanism behind hemolytic anemia?

<p>Increased destruction of red blood cells in the circulation. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient who has had a significant portion of their small intestine removed is at risk for which type of anemia?

<p>Vitamin B12 deficiency anemia. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary goal of therapeutic phlebotomy in the treatment of polycythemia vera?

<p>To reduce the number of red blood cells. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What assessment finding would the nurse expect in a patient with splenomegaly?

<p>Upper left quadrant abdominal fullness. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with a history of rheumatoid arthritis is diagnosed with anemia. Which mechanism is the most likely cause of anemia in this patient?

<p>Impaired iron utilization due to chronic inflammation. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the most important teaching point for a patient with G6PD deficiency?

<p>Avoid certain foods and medications that can trigger hemolytic crises. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient who is post-op bariatric surgery is at the greatest risk for what deficiency?

<p>Vitamin B12 Deficiency. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient has a hemoglobin level of 7.0 g/dL. What would the nurse expect to assess?

<p>Tachycardia and fatigue. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What term best describes red blood cells that are smaller than normal in size?

<p>Microcytic. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Pancytopenia is best described as a deficiency of what?

<p>All blood cells. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which type of anemia has the potential to cause irreparable neurological damage if left untreated?

<p>Vitamin B12 deficiency anemia. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient is diagnosed with Mediterranean-type glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency. Where did this patient likely originate?

<p>The Middle East. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with chronic kidney disease is at risk for microcytic anemia. What condition might contribute to this risk?

<p>Impaired iron utilization due to chronic inflammation. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should the nurse teaching a pregnant patient regarding folate supplementation?

<p>Folate helps prevent neural tube defects in the fetus. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which patient population is most at risk for the development of Vitamin B12 deficiency?

<p>Elderly adults with atrophic gastritis. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which intervention provides oral care for a patient diagnosed with glossitis?

<p>Soft, bland foods. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which foods should a nurse recommend to increase iron intake through diet?

<p>Legumes. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What best describes the primary mechanism behind hemolytic anemia?

<p>Increased destruction of red blood cells. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient had a significant portion of the small intestine removed and is now at risk for anemia. Which type anemia?

<p>Vitamin B12 deficiency. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary goal of therapeutic phlebotomy when treating polycythemia vera?

<p>To decrease the number of red blood cells. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What assessment finding represents splenomegaly?

<p>Upper left quadrant abdominal fullness. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with thalassemia major is undergoing regular blood transfusions. Which complication is most important for the nurse to monitor in this patient?

<p>Iron overload. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with anemia is experiencing paresthesia in their feet and hands. Which vitamin deficiency should the nurse suspect?

<p>Vitamin B12 (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which factor should a nurse consider when planning care for a patient with anemia?

<p>Adequate iron intake. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with a history of gastric bypass surgery is being evaluated for anemia. Which mechanism is most likely contributing to the development of anemia in this patient?

<p>Impaired absorption of vitamin B12 due to reduced intrinsic factor. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with anemia is experiencing persistent fatigue and weakness that is impacting their ability to perform daily activities. What is an appropriate nursing intervention?

<p>Schedule rest periods between activities to conserve energy. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with anemia has been prescribed ferrous sulfate. What instruction should the nurse include in the patient's education regarding the administration of this medication?

<p>Administer the medication on an empty stomach to enhance absorption. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with pernicious anemia is receiving intramuscular vitamin B12 injections. What assessment finding indicates the treatment is effective?

<p>Improved sensation in hands and feet. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The nurse is caring for a patient with severe anemia. What is a priority nursing intervention to address the patient's decreased oxygen-carrying capacity?

<p>Administering oxygen therapy as prescribed. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What dietary modification is most appropriate for a patient with glossitis related to anemia to promote healing and reduce discomfort?

<p>Avoid spicy and acidic foods and consume soft, bland foods. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with anemia is prescribed a liquid iron supplement. What instruction should the nurse provide to minimize staining of the teeth?

<p>Dilute the supplement with water and rinse the mouth after administration. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The nurse is administering an intramuscular iron injection to a patient with iron deficiency anemia. Which technique is essential?

<p>Use the Z-track method to prevent staining of subcutaneous tissue. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient who had a significant portion of the small intestine removed is at risk for which type of anemia?

<p>Vitamin B12 deficiency anemia. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Anemia

A condition where circulating blood is deficient in red blood cells, hemoglobin, or both, leading to reduced oxygen delivery to tissues.

Aplastic

Impaired production of red blood cells.

Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC)

A complex condition involving abnormal blood clotting throughout the body's blood vessels.

Glossitis

Inflammation of the tongue.

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Hemarthrosis

Bleeding into joint spaces.

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Hemolytic Anemia

Anemia caused by the destruction of red blood cells.

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Hemophilia

A hereditary bleeding disorder caused by a deficiency in clotting factors.

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Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP)

A disorder characterized by abnormal destruction of platelets by the immune system, leading to easy bruising and bleeding.

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Leukemia

Cancer of the blood or bone marrow characterized by an abnormal increase of leukocytes.

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Lymphoma

Cancer of the lymphatic system.

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Pancytopenia

Deficiency of all three cellular components of the blood (red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets).

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Panmyelosis

Abnormal increase in all bone marrow elements.

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Pathological Fracture

A fracture occurring in a bone weakened by disease.

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Phlebotomy

The process of drawing blood.

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Polycythemia

A condition marked by an abnormally large number of red blood cells in the circulatory system.

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Splenectomy

Surgical removal of the spleen.

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Splenomegaly

Abnormal enlargement of the spleen.

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Thrombocytopenia

A condition characterized by an abnormally low number of platelets in the blood.

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Glossitis (in Pernicious Anemia)

Inflamed, beefy red tongue associated with pernicious anemia.

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Nutrients Essential for RBC Production

Iron, folic acid, and vitamin B12 are essential for the production of healthy RBCs.

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Microcytic Anemia

Small red blood cells, often due to iron deficiency.

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Macrocytic Anemia

Large red blood cells, often caused by Vitamin B12 or folate deficiency.

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Intrinsic Factor

Vitamin B12 requires this protein-binding factor, secreted by the stomach, for absorption in the ileum.

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Symptoms of Anemia

Pallor, tachycardia, tachypnea, fatigue, and shortness of breath.

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Complete Blood Count (CBC)

Measures the number of RBCs and WBCs per cubic millimeter.

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Study Notes

  • Anemia is a condition marked by a deficiency of red blood cells (RBCs), hemoglobin (Hgb), or both, leading to reduced oxygen delivery to tissues.
  • Symptoms include lightheadedness, dizziness, weakness, shortness of breath, and palpitations.

Pathophysiology of Anemia

  • Decreased RBC numbers can stem from impaired RBC production, increased RBC destruction, or blood loss.
  • Anemia is typically secondary to another underlying health issue, not a primary diagnosis.

Etiology of Anemia

  • Nutritional deficiencies in iron, folic acid, and vitamin B12 can lead to anemia.
  • Pernicious anemia results from a lack of intrinsic factor, hindering vitamin B12 absorption.

Cultural Considerations

  • Mediterranean-type glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency is a genetic disorder primarily affecting males from the Middle East, impacting RBCs and causing hemolytic crisis upon exposure to triggers like fava beans or certain drugs.

Nutrition and Anemia

  • Iron, vitamin B12, and folate are essential for RBC synthesis; inadequate intake can lead to anemia.
  • Nutrition therapy can be useful, but additional treatments may be required.

Microcytic Anemia

  • Microcytic anemia is characterized by smaller than normal RBCs.
  • Common causes for microcytic anemia include inadequate iron intake, blood loss, renal disease, lead toxicity, gastrointestinal surgeries, and digestive conditions.
  • Those at risk include children, individuals with a genetic predisposition or family history, and women of childbearing age.
  • Dietary sources of iron include animal meats, legumes, iron-fortified grains, dried fruits, and dark leafy greens.
  • Vitamin C aids iron absorbtion.
  • Iron supplements can treat iron deficiency, but it might take 3-6 months to replenish iron stores.

Macrocytic Anemia

  • Macrocytic anemia is characterized by larger than normal RBCs.
  • Vitamin B12 and folate deficiencies are the most common cause.

Vitamin B12

  • B12 is required for neurological function, DNA, and RBC synthesis.
  • Intrinsic factor, secreted by the stomach, is required for B12 absorbtion.
  • B12 is found in animal meats and eggs; dairy products (milk, cheese, yogurt); and vitamin B12–fortified foods such as soy milk, tofu, and breakfast cereals.
  • Strict vegetarians are at risk.
  • B12 deficiency can cause nerve damage.
  • Metformin interferes with B12 absorbtion.

Folate

  • Folate is required for heme, the iron-containing portion of Hgb, and DNA formation.
  • Necessary for rapidly growing cells in the gastrointestinal tract, blood, and fetal tissue.
  • Alcohol, anticonvulsants, and aspirin can interfere with folate absorption.
  • Dietary sources include vegetables (spinach, asparagus, and Brussels sprouts), fruits (oranges and bananas), nuts, legumes, animal meats, eggs, dairy products, and fortified grains.
  • Folate deficiency increases the risk of fetal neural tube defects.
  • Women of childbearing age should consume 400 mcg of folate daily from fortified foods or supplements.

Signs and Symptoms of Anemia

  • Common symptoms include pallor, tachycardia, tachypnea, fatigue, and shortness of breath due to reduced oxygen delivery.
  • Pernicious anemia presents with numbness in hands/feet, weakness, memory issues due to vitamin B12's role in neurologic function, and glossitis (inflamed, red tongue).
  • Iron deficiency manifests as fissures at the corners of the mouth, glossitis, and spoon-shaped fingernails.

Diagnostic Tests for Anemia

  • A complete blood count (CBC) determines RBC and WBC counts.
  • Microscopic examination assesses blood cell size, color, and shape.
  • Hgb and hematocrit (Hct) levels are below normal in anemia.
  • Serum iron, ferritin, and total iron-binding capacity (TIBC) measurements assess iron deficiency.
  • Serum folate and B12 levels may be measured.
  • Bone marrow biopsy and analysis may also be done.
  • Testing for intrinsic factor antibodies and homocysteine levels help diagnose pernicious anemia.
  • Additional tests identify bleeding sources if blood loss is suspected.

Therapeutic Measures for Anemia

  • Treatment focuses on addressing underlying causes.
  • Dietary adjustments or supplements increase deficient nutrient intake.
  • Changes in cooking habits, decreased alcohol intake, and managing chronic diarrhea can help correct B12 and folic acid deficits.
  • Blood transfusions may be necessary for acute symptoms.

Nursing Process for Anemia: Data Collection

  • Monitor Hgb and Hct levels, reporting any downward trends.
  • Assess responses to therapy, fatigue level, and ability to perform activities of daily living (ADLs) safely.
  • Monitor dyspnea and oxygen saturation, noting potential inaccuracies at lower Hgb levels.
  • Observe for pallor in the skin and conjunctivae.

Nursing Diagnoses, Planning, and Implementation

  • Decreased Activity Tolerance: Monitor vital signs, adjust activity levels based on patient response, plan for energy conservation, assist with self-care, limit interruptions, and administer oxygen.
  • Imbalanced Nutrition: Consult a dietitian, educate on food choices, instruct on supplement use, and teach about lifelong B12 injections for pernicious anemia; supplements should be taken with vitamin C–rich foods or fluids to enhance absorption of iron.
  • Impaired Oral Mucous Membrane Integrity: Monitor oral membranes, provide oral hygiene, encourage soft foods, and advise a soft toothbrush.

Evaluation

  • Successful treatment is indicated by the patient's ability to tolerate usual activity levels without dyspnea or fatigue.
  • The patient will explain the treatment plan and therapeutic measures for long-term prevention of problems.
  • The oral mucosa will be intact.

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Description

Explore anemia: its pathophysiology, etiology, and symptoms such as dizziness and shortness of breath. Learn about nutritional deficiencies (iron, folic acid, B12) and genetic factors like G6PD deficiency that contribute to this condition.

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