A patient in the healthcare clinic reports fatigue, weakness, and dyspnea, as well as pale conjunctiva of the eyes and brittle, concave nails. What assessment by the healthcare professional is most appropriate for the suspected anemia?
A)Blood pressure and apical pulse
B)Oral mucus membranes and tongue
C)Ability to swallow foods and liquids
D)Skin and sclera for normal coloration

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Early symptoms of iron deficiency anemia (IDA) include fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath. Pale earlobes, palms, and conjunctivae are also common signs. Progressive IDA causes more severe alterations, with structural and functional changes apparent in epithelial tissue. The nails become brittle, thin, coarsely ridged, and spoon-shaped or concave (koilonychia) as a result of impaired capillary circulation. The tongue becomes red, sore, and painful. The healthcare professional should assess the patient's mouth and tongue. Blood pressure and pulse readings would not be specific for any one type of anemia. Dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) could indicate pernicious anemia. Jaundice (most often seen in the sclera and on the skin) would be a characteristic of hemolytic anemia, although it is not always noticed.

A Patient in the Healthcare Clinic Reports Fatigue, Weakness, and Dyspnea