Iron Deficiency Anaemia Flashcards
1
Q
What is iron deficiency anaemia?
A
- mineral iron is present in all cells and carries oxygen to the tissues from the lungs in the form of hb
- total body iron is determined by intake, loss and storage
- any iron not used it stored as ferritin
- the main factor controlling iron absorption is the amount of iron stored in the body and the type of iron in one’s diet.
2
Q
What are signs and symptoms?
A
- mild tiredness
- palpitations
- breathlessness
- pallor
3
Q
What are some of the possible causes?
A
- pregnancy
- menstruation
- growth
- diet low in haem iron
- malabsorption
4
Q
What is the treatment?
A
- encourage iron rich foods
- iron supplementation
5
Q
What is the issue with anaemia in pregnancy?
A
- increase risk of poor recovery from blood loss at birth
- tachycardia
- shortness of breath
- maternal exhaustion
6
Q
What is the role of the midwife?
A
- ensure cause of anaemia has been assessed by referral
- ensure ferrous sulfate has been prescribed
- promote iron rich diet
- women with known anaemia to be tested at each antenatal visit