General Nursing©

ANEMIA

Anemia is a condition, which affects the red blood cells in the body. It is a reduction in red cells that in turn decreases the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood. It involves either a decrease in the number of these cells or a lack of hemoglobin (the part of the cell which carries oxygen) within the cells themselves. Either way, this results in less oxygen being carried to various organs and tissues, including the heart, brain, lungs, and muscles. Without enough oxygen, these organs do not function effectively.

Hemoglobin is a large, complex molecule, which contains Iron. It is incorporated into red blood cells as they are produced in the bone marrow (tissue in the center cavity of the bone). To produce normal red blood cells, adequate amounts of iron, as well as Vitamin B12, Vitamin C, and Folic Acid must be available in the body

The goals of care for people with anemia include; alleviate or control the causes, relieve symptoms, and prevent complications. Intervention for the anemias ranges from specific treatments to symptomatic care. They also vary in intensity and duration because some anemias resolve within a few weeks or months whereas others require lifelong intervention.

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