To maintain hematocrit levels in people with kidney failure, the nurse should be prepared to
A) arrange for frequent blood transfusions in an outpatient clinic.
B) administer iron dextran intravenously.
C) administer a subcutaneous injection of recombinant human erythropoietin (rhEPO).
D) administer prenatal vitamins twice a day.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Recombinant human erythropoietin (rhEPO) helps maintain hematocrit levels in people with kidney failure. Secondary benefits include improvement in appetite, energy level, sexual function, skin color, and hair and nail growth, and reduced cold intolerance.Blood transfusion is a treatment if symptomatic with low hemoglobin; however, they tryto prevent this by giving EPO or IV iron dextran if there is severe iron deficiency anemia. Prenatal vitamins are high in vitamins but not helpful to renal failure patients.

To Maintain Hematocrit Levels in People with Kidney Failure, the Nurse