Anemia

Definition

Anemia is a condition characterized by decreased red blood cell count, hemoglobin, or hematocrit below normal reference ranges for age and sex. It impairs oxygen transport, causing fatigue, pallor, and cardiovascular compensation.

Common Types

• Iron-deficiency anemia: Most common; microcytic, hypochromic.
• B12/folate deficiency: Macrocytic; B12 deficiency may cause neurologic symptoms.
• Pernicious anemia: Autoimmune loss of intrinsic factor.
• Sickle cell anemia: Hemoglobin S that causes vaso-occlusive crises.
• Aplastic anemia: Bone marrow failure affecting all cell lines.
• Hemolytic anemia: RBC destruction.

Clinical Features

Fatigue, pallor, tachycardia, dyspnea on exertion, palpitations, cold intolerance, spoon nails (koilonychia) in iron deficiency, glossitis, and neurologic deficits in B12 deficiency.

Nursing Interventions

Iron supplementation with vitamin C to enhance absorption; take on empty stomach (or with food if GI upset); expect dark stools. Teach foods rich in iron (red meat, spinach, legumes). B12 is administered IM monthly for pernicious anemia. Manage sickle cell crises with hydration, oxygen, pain control, and trigger avoidance.

NCLEX Relevance

High-yield across maternity, pediatrics, and medical-surgical, such as recognize labs, morphology, and targeted interventions.