adult 1: pernicious anemia+folic acid Flashcards
(19 cards)
What is another name for cobalamin deficiency?
Pernicious anemia
What causes cobalamin deficiency?
Lack of intrinsic factor or stomach irritation/erosion (e.g., GI surgery) leading to decreased vitamin B12 synthesis
What are the signs and symptoms of cobalamin deficiency?
Headache, paresthesia, fatigue, palpitations, dyspnea, glossitis, anorexia, nausea/vomiting, abdominal pain, weakness, peripheral neuropathy, ataxia, impaired cognition
What diagnostic findings are typical for cobalamin deficiency?
Low Hgb/Hct, high methylmalonic acid (MMA), high homocysteine, low serum B12
What is the prescribed treatment for cobalamin deficiency?
IM cobalamin injections: daily for 2 weeks, then weekly until Hgb stabilizes, then monthly for life
What nursing assessments are important for cobalamin deficiency?
Assess neurological status (5 Ps: pain, pallor, pulse, paresthesia, paralysis)
What safety precautions should be implemented for these patients?
Fall and injury prevention due to decreased sensation and ataxia
What collaborative care is recommended for neuromuscular issues?
Consult physical therapy (PT)
What education should be provided regarding injections?
Teach proper IM injection technique if self-administering
What foods are high in vitamin B12?
Meats, eggs, enriched grains, dairy, and fish
What is the nurse’s role in surgical or procedural treatment?
Monitor for complications, provide patient education, assist in pre/post-op care, and administer ordered treatments safely
What causes folic acid deficiency anemia?
Low folic acid intake, malabsorption, chronic hemodialysis, alcohol abuse, and often occurs with thiamine deficiency
What are the signs and symptoms of folic acid deficiency anemia?
Headache, paresthesia, fatigue, palpitations, dyspnea, glossitis, anorexia, nausea/vomiting, abdominal pain, weakness, peripheral neuropathy, ataxia, impaired cognition
What is the role of the nurse in the medical treatment of folic acid deficiency anemia?
Monitor for complications, assess CIWA withdrawal scale often, and educate on folic acid food intake
What foods are high in folic acid?
Leafy greens, enriched grains, orange juice, peanuts, avocado
What diagnostic findings are typical for folic acid deficiency anemia?
Low Hgb/Hct, normal methylmalonic acid (MMA), high homocysteine, low serum folate
What medication is prescribed for folic acid deficiency anemia?
Folic acid supplements
What is important to monitor when caring for patients with folic acid deficiency anemia?
Assess for neurological and cognitive symptoms, as well as monitor for potential thiamine deficiency
How does folic acid deficiency anemia often present in relation to other deficiencies?
It often occurs with thiamine deficiency
