The nurse is caring for a 60-year-old patient who is pale and reporting feelings of weakness. The patient's hemoglobin level is 9 g/dL. The patient states, "I eat a healthful diet. Why am I not well?" The nurse's best response is which of the following?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient's symptoms and low hemoglobin level indicate iron deficiency anemia. As we age, the amount of iron absorbed by our body decreases, making older individuals more susceptible to iron deficiency anemia. Option A may be perceived as blaming the patient, and Option B and D are not accurate explanations for the patient's symptoms.

The Nurse Is Caring for a 60-Year-Old Patient Who Is