Question

When obtaining assessment data from a client with a microcytic normochromic anemia, which should the nurse question the client about?

A. Folic acid intake
B. Dietary intake of iron
C. A history of gastric surgery
D. A history of sickle cell anemia

Answer 1

For a client with microcytic normochromic anemia, a nurse should inquire about the client's dietary intake of iron since it's typically associated with iron deficiency due to inadequate dietary intake or poor iron absorption.

Step-by-step explanation:

When obtaining assessment data from a client with a microcytic normochromic anemia, the nurse should question the client about their dietary intake of iron. Microcytic anemia is characterized by smaller-than-normal red blood cells and is commonly associated with iron deficiency, which is often due to inadequate dietary intake or poor absorption of iron. Conditions such as slow, chronic bleeding or an inability to absorb and transport iron can also lead to this type of anemia. In contrast, conditions such as pernicious anemia, which involves poor absorption of vitamin B12, lead to macrocytic anemia and are not directly related to iron intake.