Iron_Deficiency_Anaemia_Flashcards
What dietary advice should be given to someone with Iron Deficiency Anaemia?
Increase intake of iron-rich food such as dark green vegetables, iron-fortified bread, meat, apricots, prunes, and raisins. Consider dietician referral.
What underlying aspects should be explored in Iron Deficiency Anaemia?
Explore the underlying cause of Iron Deficiency Anaemia.
What is the recommended oral iron supplementation for Iron Deficiency Anaemia?
Oral ferrous sulphate 200 mg tablets (2/3 per day).
How long should oral iron supplementation be continued after correcting Iron Deficiency Anaemia?
Iron supplementation should be continued for 3 months after correcting Iron Deficiency Anaemia to replenish iron stores.
What should be considered if a patient cannot tolerate ferrous sulphate?
If ferrous sulphate is not tolerated, consider oral ferrous fumarate or ferrous gluconate.
What are common adverse effects of iron supplementation?
Common adverse effects of iron supplementation include constipation, diarrhoea, faecal impaction, GI irritation, and nausea.
How can discomfort from iron supplements be minimized?
Discomfort from iron supplements can be minimized by taking the supplement with food or reducing dose frequency.
What is the recommended monitoring schedule for haemoglobin levels after starting iron supplementation?
Recheck haemoglobin levels (FBC) after 2-4 weeks of iron supplement treatment. If the level has risen sufficiently, check again at 2-4 months to ensure that Hb level has normalized.
What should be done if haemoglobin levels have not risen sufficiently after iron supplementation?
If haemoglobin levels have not risen sufficiently after iron supplementation, address compliance issues.
What is the follow-up plan once haemoglobin and red cell indices normalize in Iron Deficiency Anaemia?
Once haemoglobin and red cell indices are normal, continue iron treatment for 3 months to replenish iron stores, monitor FBC every 3 months for 1 year, and recheck after another year.
Who might need a prophylactic dose of iron to prevent Iron Deficiency Anaemia?
A prophylactic dose of iron may be needed for individuals at particular risk of Iron Deficiency Anaemia, such as those with recurring anaemia, iron-poor diet (e.g., vegans), malabsorption, menorrhagia, or gastrectomy.
