The client is an older adult who has been previously diagnosed with gastroesophageal reflux disease. The client takes medications to manage this condition

Question

While assessing the client and reviewing recent laboratory diagnostic test results, the nurse expects to find which of the following? (Select all that apply.) 1. Increased mean corpuscular volume of erythrocytes
2. Leukocytosis
3. Decreased iron levels
4. Pallor
5. Dyspnea

Answer 1

1, 3, 4, 5

Rationale: The older client who takes histamine-2 receptor blockers, proton pump inhibitors, and antacids has a decreased ability to absorb iron, calcium, and vitamin B12 from food. The older client has a higher risk of atrophic gastritis and a decreased ability to produce gastric acid, which further hinders their ability to absorb these nutrients. This client may develop pernicious anemia because they can't absorb vitamin B12 and the erythrocytes will be large and dysfunctional. The client will not have an increased leukocyte count. Leukocytosis indicates infection. The older client has a decreased ability to absorb iron and their iron levels may be lower. The client who is iron-deficient will be pale. The client who is iron-deficient may experience shortness of breath due to the decreased ability to mobilize oxygen.