Iron deficiency anemia

Question 1

Pathophysiology

Answer 1

Hgb cannot be formed
Inadequate ability to carry oxygen
Body stores Fe+ in the liver as ferritin - transferred with increased demand for iron

Question 2

Clinical manifestation

Answer 2

Fatigue
Pallor
Tachycardia
Tachypnea
Hypoxemia
Swelling of the tongue
Koilonychia (irregular shape and thickness of nails)

Question 3

Diagnosis

Answer 3

CBC
Decreased crit/Hgb
Low MCV (microcytosis)
Lower MCHC (pale cells due to low Hgb)
Iron, ferritin, TIBCM

Question 4

Nursing management

Answer 4

Assess for clinical manifestations
Vital signs
LoC

Question 5

Interventions

Answer 5

Administer iron supplementation
Minimize blood loss if applicable
Increase vitamin C (increases Fe+ absorption)

Question 6

Patient teaching

Answer 6

Dietary sources of iron (meat, eggs, vegetables, beets)
Dangers of lead exposure
Prenatal supplement