A female patient who has a history of heavy menstrual periods is experiencing shortness of breath with exertion, pallor, and fatigue
Her hemoglobin and hematocrit levels are both lower than normal, and her CBC reveals microcytic and hypochromic erythrocytes. What will the nurse do?
a. Contact the provider to discuss an order for 600 mg of PO ferrous sulfate BID.
b. Recommend an over-the-counter folic acid supplement of 400 mcg/day.
c. Suggest an over-the-counter iron supplement of 325 mg/day.
d. Tell her to consult a dietician about including iron-rich foods in her diet.
ANS: A
This patient has positive findings for iron-deficiency anemia and will need therapeutic doses of iron, which is 600 to 1200 mg/day in divided doses. Her lab tests are not consistent with folic acid deficiency. Iron supplementation of 300 to 325 mg/day is correct for prophylactic supplementation. When deficiency is present, it is very difficult to obtain the necessary amount of iron from food sources alone.
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