The most appropriate nursing diagnosis for a child with anemia ...

[meagbuch]

The most appropriate nursing diagnosis for a child with anemia is:
 
  a. Activity Intolerance related to generalized weakness.
  b. Decreased Cardiac Output related to abnormal hemoglobin.
  c. Risk for Injury related to depressed sensorium.
  d. Risk for Injury related to dehydration and abnormal hemoglobin.

Question 2

Which statement best explains why iron deficiency anemia is common during toddlerhood?
 
  a. Milk is a poor source of iron.
  b. Iron cannot be stored during fetal development.
  c. Fetal iron stores are depleted by age 1 month.
  d. Dietary iron cannot be started until age 12 months.

[phuda]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: A
The basic pathology in anemia is the decreased oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood. The nurse must assess the child's activity level (response to the physiologic state). The nursing diagnosis would reflect the activity intolerance. In generalized anemia no abnormal hemoglobin may be present. Only at a level of very severe anemia does cardiac output become altered. No decreased sensorium exists until profound anemia occurs. Dehydration and abnormal hemoglobin are not usually part of anemia.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A
Children between the ages of 12 and 36 months are at risk for anemia because cow's milk is a major component of their diet, and it is a poor source of iron. Iron is stored during fetal development, but the amount stored depends on maternal iron stores. Fetal iron stores are usually depleted by age 5 to 6 months. Dietary iron can be introduced by breastfeeding, iron-fortified formula, and cereals during the first 12 months of life.