Author Question: A patient who has recently immigrated to the United States from an impoverished country appears ... (Read 98 times)

justinmsk · **on:** Jul 23, 2018

A patient who has recently immigrated to the United States from an impoverished country appears malnourished. The patient's folic acid levels are low, and the vitamin B12 levels are normal. The nurse expects this patient's treatment to include:

a. a diet high in folic acid.
b. intramuscular folic acid.
c. oral folic acid and vitamin B12.
d. oral folic acid supplements.

Question 2

A patient is admitted to the hospital. The patient's initial laboratory results reveal megaloblastic anemia. The patient complains of tingling of the hands and appears confused. The nurse suspects what in this patient?

a. Celiac disease
b. Folic acid deficiency
c. Iron deficiency anemia
d. Vitamin B12 deficiency

pallen55 · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 23, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: A
If a folic acid deficiency is caused by poor diet, it should be corrected with dietary measures, not supplements. IM or oral supplements of folic acid are not indicated. Vitamin B12 is not recommended.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: D
When patients present with megaloblastic anemia, it is essential to distinguish between folic acid deficiency and vitamin B12 deficiency. If neurologic deficits are observed, vitamin B12 deficiency is more likely to be the cause. This patient does not have signs of celiac disease. Iron deficiency anemia would be indicated by a low hemoglobin and hematocrit.