The nurse is assessing a female patient of child-bearing age for symptoms of iron-deficiency anemia, including:
Explanation
• Anemia can cause pallor, dyspnea, tachycardia, malaise, fatigue, and palpitations. Most symptoms are a direct result of compensation for the lack of oxygen-carrying capabilities. Women of child-bearing age are at higher risk for iron-deficieny anemia, especially if they experience menorrhagia (heavy menstrual bleeding)
• Incorrect: Weight loss and night sweats are not symptoms of iron-deficiency anemia
• Incorrect: Rash and pruritus may be present in hemolytic anemia