NUR 502 Week 2 Hematopoietic Factors Iron Deficiency Discussion St Thomas University
Several factors in J.D.’s patient history may contribute to her risk of developing iron deficiency anemia (IDA).
Firstly, J.D. experienced four pregnancies over a four-year period, which likely led to significant blood loss during delivery (Garzon et al., 2020).
Pregnancy increases the risk of anemia in pregnancy, particularly if blood loss occurs during childbirth.
Additionally, J.D. reported six days of intense menstrual pain and heavy bleeding, which could result in significant blood loss, further exposing her to the risk of iron deficiency anemia.
Menorrhagia, or excessively prolonged and heavy menstrual bleeding, is a well-known risk factor for iron deficiency anemia in women.
Furthermore, J.D. has experienced intermenstrual bleeding for the past two months, which could suggest menorrhagia or other menstrual disorders that contribute to iron deficiency. These factors cumulatively increase her risk for developing iron deficiency anemia, particularly due to excessive blood loss and iron deficiency symptoms.
Struggling to meet your deadline?
Get your assignment on NUR 502 Week 2 Hematopoietic Factors Iron Deficiency Discussion St Thomas University done by certified MDs and PhDs in the USA. ORDER NOW!
Risk Factors for Iron Deficiency Anemia
In J.D.’s case, the primary risk factors for iron deficiency anemia include:
- Heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia)
- Multiple pregnancies leading to blood loss
- Hormonal imbalances, particularly during menstruation or pregnancy
- Inadequate dietary iron intake or malabsorption of iron
These factors contribute significantly to her risk of iron deficiency anemia and should be addressed as part of her nursing diagnosis for iron deficiency anemia.
Reasons for Constipation and Dehydration in J.D.
The anemia induced by blood loss likely plays a significant role in J.D.’s symptoms of dehydration. Hormonal changes, particularly fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone, can contribute to constipation and dehydration (Igbinosa et al., 2022). Hormonal imbalances—often caused by menorrhagia or pregnancy-related anemia—can affect fluid balance, causing symptoms such as thirst, dizziness, and dehydration. Therefore, hormonal imbalance and iron deficiency in J.D. are major contributors to her dehydration and constipation symptoms. These secondary conditions can also complicate the treatment of iron deficiency anemia and need to be managed alongside the primary condition. 
Importance of Vitamin B12 and Folate in Erythropoiesis
Erythropoiesis, the production of red blood cells, depends on adequate levels of iron, vitamin B12, and folate (Takahashi, 2022). Vitamin B12 and folate deficiency are both linked to poor erythropoiesis and can lead to iron deficiency anemia. When either vitamin is deficient, it can impair the functioning of purine and thymidylate synthases, enzymes required for the proper production of red blood cells.
This results in impaired differentiation of erythroblasts (precursors to red blood cells), leading to their premature death and ineffective erythropoiesis. As a result, both vitamin B12 and folate deficiencies can contribute to the development of anemia, especially in the presence of iron deficiency anemia. Iron is essential for the synthesis of hemoglobin, the oxygen-carrying protein in red blood cells. When both iron deficiency and vitamin deficiencies coexist, microcytic anemia (smaller than normal red blood cells) and hypochromic anemia (paler red blood cells) are often observed.
Clinical Symptoms of Iron Deficiency Anemia
Patients with mild iron deficiency anemia might not immediately experience noticeable symptoms. However, as the condition progresses, clinical signs become more evident. These signs of iron deficiency symptoms include:
- Fatigue, due to inadequate oxygenation of tissues
- Paleness of the skin and mucous membranes, due to decreased hemoglobin
- Weakness, particularly in the limbs
- Cold extremities, as blood flow is directed to vital organs
- Chest discomfort, indicating reduced oxygenation of the heart
- Shortness of breath, due to the body’s attempt to compensate for low oxygen levels
- Cravings for non-nutritive substances such as ice, dirt, or starch (a condition called pica)
In J.D.’s case, these symptoms are likely due to the iron deficiency caused by her blood loss from heavy menstrual bleeding and intermenstrual bleeding. These factors would explain the development of microcytic anemia and hypochromic anemia, which are hallmarks of iron deficiency anemia.
Diagnosis of Iron Deficiency Anemia: Lab Results and Interpretation
The lab results for J.D. reveal the following:
- Hemoglobin (Hb) 10.2 g/dL (below the normal range of 12–16 g/dL for women)
- Hematocrit (Hct) 30.8% (normal range for women is 36%–44%)
- Ferritin 9 ng/dL (normal levels for women are 12–150 ng/dL)
These results confirm the diagnosis of iron deficiency anemia, as the hemoglobin and hematocrit values are below normal, indicating insufficient oxygen-carrying capacity in the blood. Additionally, the ferritin level is significantly low, confirming iron deficiency as the cause of the anemia.
Treatment Options for Iron Deficiency Anemia: Nutrition, Supplements, and Medical Interventions
Treatment for iron deficiency anemia typically involves the following interventions:
- Iron-Rich Foods: Increasing intake of iron-rich foods such as green leafy vegetables (e.g., spinach), meat (especially organ meats like liver), fish (e.g., sardines, anchovies), and iron-enriched cereals can help improve iron stores. Additionally, incorporating vitamin C-rich foods (like citrus fruits) can enhance iron absorption.
- Iron Supplements: A daily supplement of 150–200 mg of elemental iron is commonly prescribed to correct the deficiency. However, patients should be informed of the side effects of iron supplements, which can include constipation, nausea, and stomach discomfort (Igbinosa et al., 2022).
- Intravenous Iron Therapy: In severe cases, particularly in patients with poor absorption of oral iron or persistent blood loss, intravenous iron therapy may be needed. This method delivers iron directly into the bloodstream, bypassing the digestive system.
- Blood Transfusion: In cases of severe anemia with significant fatigue, shortness of breath, and chest discomfort, a blood transfusion may be required to quickly restore oxygen-carrying capacity in the blood.
Iron Supplementation: Dosage, Side Effects, and Guidelines
Iron supplementation should be done cautiously, as iron supplements can cause significant side effects, including constipation, gas, and stomach cramps. The recommended dosage typically ranges from 150–200 mg of elemental iron daily. Patients should take the supplement with food or a vitamin C source to improve absorption but should avoid taking iron with dairy products, tea, or coffee, as these can inhibit absorption. It’s important to monitor iron supplementation closely to avoid iron overload, particularly in patients with conditions like iron deficiency anemia in children, who may be more sensitive to higher doses.
Managing Iron Deficiency Anemia in Pregnancy and Women of Childbearing Age
Iron deficiency anemia in pregnancy is a common concern, as pregnant women need additional iron to support the growing fetus. For women of childbearing age, particularly those experiencing menorrhagia or heavy menstrual bleeding, it is important to assess iron levels regularly. Increasing dietary intake of iron-rich foods, along with iron supplements, is key to preventing iron deficiency anemia in women. Women who are at higher risk should also be educated about the signs of iron deficiency anemia symptoms and when to seek treatment.
Preventing Iron Deficiency Anemia in High-Risk Populations
Preventing iron deficiency anemia in high-risk populations, such as pregnant women, children, and individuals with heavy menstrual bleeding, requires proactive measures, including the consumption of iron-rich foods, iron supplementation, and regular screening for iron deficiency anemia symptoms. Regular monitoring and early intervention can prevent severe anemia and its complications, such as impaired erythropoiesis and fatigue.
Clinical Management of Severe Iron Deficiency Anemia: Blood Transfusions and IV Iron
In cases of severe iron deficiency anemia, especially when symptoms are debilitating or life-threatening, blood transfusions and intravenous iron therapy are the most effective treatments. These interventions are critical for rapidly restoring hemoglobin levels and improving erythropoiesis, the process of red blood cell production, which is impaired in iron deficiency anemia.
Anemia Diagnosis in Nursing: A Clinical Approach
As part of nursing diagnosis for iron deficiency anemia, nurses play a vital role in recognizing the clinical symptoms and advocating for appropriate treatment. This includes understanding the causes of anemia, conducting thorough assessments, and ensuring timely interventions to prevent the progression of the condition. By addressing both nutritional and medical treatments, nurses help ensure that patients receive comprehensive care for iron deficiency anemia and other related conditions.
References:
Garzon, S., Cacciato, P. M., Certelli, C., Salvaggio, C., Magliarditi, M., & Rizzo, G. (2020). Iron Deficiency Anemia in Pregnancy: Novel Approaches for an Old Problem. Oman Medical Journal, 35(5), e166–e166. https://doi.org/10.5001/omj.2020.108
Igbinosa, I., Berube, C., & Lyell, D. J. (2022). Iron deficiency anemia in pregnancy. Current Opinion in Obstetrics and Gynecology, 34(2), 69–76. https://doi.org/10.1097/GCO.0000000000000772
James, A. H. (2021). Iron deficiency anemia in pregnancy. Obstetrics & Gynecology, 138(4). https://doi.org/10.1097/aog.0000000000004559
Takahashi, A. (2022). Role of Zinc and Copper in Erythropoiesis in Patients on Hemodialysis. Journal of Renal Nutrition. https://doi.org/10.1053/j.jrn.2022.02.007
Dont wait until the last minute.
Provide your requirements and let our native nursing writers deliver your assignments ASAP.