A client is admitted to the medical surgical floor with a hemoglobin level of 5.0 g/dL (50 g/L). The nurse should anticipate which findings? Select all that apply.

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A normal hemoglobin level for an adult male is 13.2-17.3 g/dL (132-173 g/L) and female is 11.7-15.5 g/dL (117-155 g/L). A client with severe anemia will have tachycardia, which will maintain cardiac output. The cardiovascular system must increase the heart rate and stroke volume to achieve adequate perfusion. Shortness of breath (dyspnea) may occur due to an insufficient number of red blood cells. The respiratory system must increase the respiratory rate to maintain adequate levels of oxygen and carbon dioxide. Pallor (pale complexion) occurs from reduced blood flow to the skin. (Option A) Coarse crackles occur with fluid overload but not with anemia. (Option D) Respiratory depression does not occur with anemia. Respiratory depression may occur post-administration of a narcotic or during oversedation. Educational objective: Cardiac and respiratory drive is increased to maintain cardiac output and oxygenation in the setting of anemia.

A Client Is Admitted to the Medical Surgical Floor with a Hemoglobin