Question

The nurse is performing an assessment on a client with a diagnosis of pernicious anemia. Which finding would the nurse expect to note in this client?

1. Dyspnea
2. Dusky mucous membranes
3. Shortness of breath on exertion
4. Red tongue that is smooth and sore

Answer 1

In a client with pernicious anemia, expected findings include a red tongue that is smooth and sore, and shortness of breath on exertion due to reduced oxygen-carrying capability of the blood.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse performing an assessment on a client with a diagnosis of pernicious anemia would expect to note findings related to the deficient production of red blood cells due to the poor absorption of vitamin B12.

An expected finding in such a client might include a red tongue that is smooth and sore, which is one of the clinical manifestations of pernicious anemia. Other symptoms might include shortness of breath on exertion, as anemia can limit the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood, leading to oxygen deprivation during physical activities.