Folic acid deficiency

Question 1

Folic acid Deficiency can cause ?

Answer 1

Megaloblastic anemia

Question 2

What is folic acid required for? (2)

Answer 2

Dna synthesis
RBC formation & maturation

Question 3

What are the manifestations for folic acid?

Answer 3

They are similar to those of cobalamin expect for neurological problems

Question 4

If neurological symptoms are present it may be from?

Answer 4

Thiamine deficiency

Question 5

When we think of folic acid we think of which group of people and why?

Answer 5

Pregnant women
They need 600 supplements in order to prevent neuro defects

Question 6

The red blood cell can not become mature and effective if there is no folic acid?
True or false

Answer 6

True

Question 7

Common causes for folic acid deficiency (7)

Answer 7

Alcohol abuse
Anorexia
Dietary deficiencies
Drugs
Increase requirement
Loss during hemolysis
Malabsorption

Question 8

What are the labs results we will see?
And what is normal for serum folate

Answer 8

Serum folate level is low
( 5-25mg/ml (11to57 mol/l)
Serum cobalamin level is normal

Question 9

How do we treat folic acid ?
How many mg per day and how administer?

Answer 9

Replacement therapy
1mg per day oral

Question 10

What foods will you encourage this patient to eat?

Answer 10

Green leafy vegetables
Enriched grain products
Breakfest cereals
Orange juice
Peanuts
Avocado

Question 11

What will we do as nurses to help aid or avoid folic acid ? (5)

Answer 11

Early detection & treatments
Ensure safety
( diminished sensation to heat & pain from neurologic impairment )
Focus on compliance with treatment
Regular screening for gastric cancer