1What is the structure of red blood cells?
Biconcave discs without nuclei, containing hemoglobin for oxygen transport.
2What is the primary function of red blood cells?
Oxygen transport from lungs to tissues and carbon dioxide transport from tissues to lungs.
3Where are red blood cells produced and removed?
Produced in bone marrow and removed by the spleen after an average lifespan of 120 days.
4What causes sickle cell anemia?
A genetic mutation in the β-globin gene leading to abnormal hemoglobin (HbS).
5What happens to RBCs in sickle cell anemia under stress?
They become sickle-shaped and rigid.
6What are the acute manifestations of sickle cell anemia?
Pain crises, acute chest syndrome, stroke, and splenic sequestration.
7What chronic manifestations occur in sickle cell anemia?
Chronic anemia, delayed growth, organ damage, and increased infection risk.
8What is the gold standard for diagnosing sickle cell anemia?
Hemoglobin electrophoresis to confirm the presence of HbS.
9How does hydroxyurea help in sickle cell anemia?
It increases HbF production, reducing sickling episodes.
10What is a key nursing intervention for sickle cell anemia pain?
Administer pain medications promptly and monitor pain levels using appropriate scales.
11What are common triggers to avoid in sickle cell anemia?
Extreme temperatures, stress, and high altitudes.
12What is the pathophysiology of iron deficiency anemia?
Depleted iron stores due to inadequate intake, absorption issues, or chronic blood loss.
13What type of RBCs are seen in iron deficiency anemia?
Microcytic, hypochromic RBCs with reduced oxygen-carrying capacity.
14What is the most sensitive indicator of iron deficiency anemia?
Decreased ferritin levels.
15How is iron deficiency anemia treated orally?
Ferrous sulfate 325mg TID or ferrous gluconate for GI sensitivity.
16What enhances iron absorption when taking supplements?
Taking with vitamin C (e.g., orange juice) and avoiding tea, coffee, or calcium near dosing time.
17What is the pathophysiology of vitamin B12 deficiency anemia?
Impaired DNA synthesis due to B12 deficiency, leading to macrocytic anemia and neurological complications.
18What are neurological symptoms of B12 deficiency?
Paresthesias, ataxia, cognitive changes, and memory issues.
19How is B12 deficiency anemia treated initially?
B12 injections (1000mcg IM daily for one week).
20What is a key difference between folate and B12 deficiency anemia?
Folate deficiency lacks neurological symptoms.
21What causes folic acid deficiency anemia?
Poor diet, alcoholism, malabsorption, pregnancy, or medications impairing folate absorption.
22How is folic acid deficiency anemia treated?
Oral folic acid 1mg daily and addressing underlying causes.
23What are folate-rich foods?
Leafy greens, legumes, and citrus fruits.
24What is thalassemia?
A genetic disorder causing decreased or absent synthesis of α or β globin chains, leading to microcytic, hemolytic anemia.
25What are complications of severe thalassemia?
Iron overload from chronic transfusions, affecting heart, liver, and endocrine organs.
26How is severe thalassemia treated?
Regular blood transfusions, iron chelation therapy, and potentially stem cell transplantation.
27What is hemophilia?
An X-linked recessive bleeding disorder due to deficiency of clotting factors (VIII or IX).
28What are common bleeding sites in hemophilia?
Joints (hemarthrosis), muscles, GI tract, urinary tract, and intracranial.
29How is hemophilia diagnosed?
Prolonged aPTT, normal PT and platelet count, and factor VIII or IX assay.
30What is a key nursing safety measure for hemophilia patients?
Prevent injuries and falls, use soft toothbrushes, and avoid IM injections.
31What are indications for blood transfusions?
Anemia (Hgb <7 g/dL), acute blood loss, perioperative support, and hematologic disorders like sickle cell crisis.
32What is the nursing intervention for an acute hemolytic transfusion reaction?
Stop transfusion, maintain IV, notify physician, and send samples.
33What distinguishes Hodgkin's lymphoma from non-Hodgkin's lymphoma?
Presence of Reed-Sternberg cells in Hodgkin's lymphoma.
34What are "B symptoms" in lymphoma?
Fever, night sweats, and weight loss.
35What is the ABVD regimen used for?
Chemotherapy treatment for Hodgkin's lymphoma.
36What is a key nursing consideration for opioid administration?
Monitor respiratory rate (hold for <12/min) and assess pain using an appropriate scale.
37What is the mechanism of action of opioid antagonists like naloxone?
They reverse opioid overdose effects by binding to opioid receptors, especially reversing respiratory depression.