Anemia: Definition: a deficiency of RBCs characterized by a decreased RBC count, Hgb, or Hct.

Anemia is a clinical sign that results in decreased oxygen delivery to the cells. Contributing Factors: Acute or chronic blood loss [GI bleeding] Greater than normal destruction of RBCs [spleen diseases] Abnormal bone marrow function [chemotherapy] Decreased erythropoietin [renal failure] Inadequate maturation of RBCs [cancer] Nutritional deficiencies [iron, B12, folic acid, intrinsic factor] Fatigue, dizziness, and weakness Pallor: first seen in conjuctival area [Caucasians] and oral area [dark-skinned persons], as well as the nail beds, the palmar creases, and around the mouth Tachycardia, murmurs and gallops, and orthostatic hypotension Decreased activity tolerance Decreased Hgb, Hct, and RBC levels SOB and dyspnea; decreased SaO2 levels Increased fatigue and headache Monitor labs [RBC, Hgb, and Hct] Encourage acitivity as tolerated by the client with frequent rest periods Monitor skin integrity and implement measures to prevent breakdown Provide oxygen therapy as needed Administer blood products and medications as prescribed

Manifestations:

Nursing Interventions:

Anemia: Definition: a deficiency of RBCs characterized by a decreased RBC count, Hgb, or Hct. Anemia is a clinical sign that results in decreased oxygen delivery to the cells. Contributing Factors: Acute or chronic blood loss [GI bleeding] Greater than normal destruction of RBCs [spleen diseases] Abnormal bone marrow function [chemotherapy] Decreased erythropoietin [renal failure] Inadequate maturation of RBCs [cancer] Nutritional deficiencies [iron, B12, folic acid, intrinsic factor] Fatigue, dizziness, and weakness Pallor: first seen in conjuctival area [Caucasians] and oral area [dark-skinned persons], as well as the nail beds, the palmar creases, and around the mouth Tachycardia, murmurs and gallops, and orthostatic hypotension Decreased activity tolerance Decreased Hgb, Hct, and RBC levels SOB and dyspnea; decreased SaO2 levels Increased fatigue and headache Monitor labs [RBC, Hgb, and Hct] Encourage acitivity as tolerated by the client with frequent rest periods Monitor skin integrity and implement measures to prevent breakdown Provide oxygen therapy as needed Administer blood products and medications as prescribed

Manifestations:

Nursing Interventions: