Pathophysiology
Iron-deficiency is the most common ________
Nutritional disorder worldwide
What are some blood test that can help diagnose iron deficiency anemia
CBC (Hct, Hgb, MCV)
Total Iron
Bilirubin
Ferritin
TIBC
Folate
Vitamin B12
What are some underlying causes that would need to be treated
Malnutrition
Alcoholism
Absorption
Which medication can help the growth factor to increase production of RBCs
Erythropoietin: epoetin alfa
Who is at risk for iron-deficiency anemia?
Geriatrics
Infants
Pregnant women
Low socioeconomic status
Women who are menstruating
People who do not eat enough iron in their diet
What type of blood would you want to infuse?
PRBCs
What are some important nursing interventions for people with iron deficiency anemia
Safety
Periods of rest
Evaluate effectiveness of treatmet
What types of issues can cause blood loss which can result in iron deficiency anemia
Chronic blood loss (from GI/GU system)
Peptic ulcer
Gastritis
Esophagitis
Diverticulitis
Hemorrhoids
Cancer
What are some early signs of iron deficiency anemia?
Pallor
Glossitis
What are some diagnostic test that can be performed to help diagnose iron deficiency anemia
Stool Occult Blood Test
Endoscopy
Colonoscopy
Bone marrow biopsy
What is some oral iron medication that can be used?
FeSO4
Fegluconate
What are some foods that you could suggest patients with iron deficiency anemia to eat more of
Liver
Muscle Meats
Legumes/Beans
Dark green leafy veggies
Enriched bread/cereals
What are some late signs of iron deficiency anemia
Headache
Parasethia
Red/Burning/Sore tongue
Stomatitis
Difficulty swallowing
Gastritis
Spoon-shaped nails
Pica
Confusion
What are some IM/IV medications that can be used?
Iron Dextran
NaFe gluconate
What is the worst complication that can come from untreated iron deficiency anemia
Death
What kind of treatment would be needed for indication for malabsorption, oral iron intolerance, need for iron beyond normal limits, and for patients who are non compliant with other regimens
Parenteral Iron