Week 14 - Hematology Flashcards

What are the four main components of blood?

What are the four main components of blood?

Plasma, red blood cells (RBCs), white blood cells (WBCs), and platelets.

What is the function of plasma?

Plasma transports nutrients, hormones, and waste products.

What role do red blood cells (RBCs) play?

RBCs carry oxygen using hemoglobin.

How do white blood cells (WBCs) contribute to the body?

WBCs defend against infections.

What is the primary function of platelets?

Platelets are essential for blood clotting.

Name three key functions of blood.

Deliver oxygen, provide immune defense, and facilitate coagulation.

What are the hallmark signs of iron deficiency anemia?

Fatigue, pallor, brittle nails, SOB, and pica.

List dietary sources that prevent iron deficiency anemia.

Red meat, fortified cereals, beans, and leafy greens.

How should oral iron supplements be administered for better absorption?

With vitamin C (e.g., orange juice).

What is a critical prevention strategy for iron deficiency in toddlers?

Limit cow's milk to less than 20 oz/day and avoid it before age 1.

How does lead exposure contribute to anemia?

Lead competes with iron in hemoglobin synthesis, reducing oxygen-carrying capacity.

At what ages should children be screened for lead exposure?

Universal screening at 1 and 2 years of age.

What is the treatment for blood lead levels >20 mcg/dL?

Chelation therapy.

What are two common complications of sickle cell anemia (SCA)?

Vaso-occlusive crisis and acute chest syndrome.

What is splenic sequestration in sickle cell anemia?

Rapid enlargement of the spleen, a life-threatening complication.

What is the cornerstone of nursing care during a sickle cell crisis?

Pain management, IV fluids, and oxygen therapy.

What are the manifestations of idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP)?

Petechiae, purpura, mucosal bleeding, and epistaxis.

What are essential nursing precautions for ITP?

Avoid aspirin/NSAIDs, ensure safety precautions, and educate on activity restrictions.

What causes hemophilia?

X-linked deficiency of clotting factors VIII (A) or IX (B).

How is hemarthrosis treated in hemophilia patients?

Factor replacement, RICE (rest, ice, compression, elevation), and DDAVP for mild cases.

What is von Willebrand disease (vWD)?

A bleeding disorder caused by deficient or defective von Willebrand factor.

What treatments are used for von Willebrand disease?

DDAVP for mild cases and vWD factor replacement for severe cases.

What is the immediate nursing care for epistaxis?

Tilt the child’s head forward, apply pressure to the lower nose, and use an ice pack on the nose bridge.

When should medical care be sought for epistaxis?

If bleeding persists for more than 30 minutes.

What is the connection between anemia and lead exposure?

Lead poisoning disrupts hemoglobin synthesis, and iron deficiency increases lead absorption.

What is the primary function of hemoglobin in red blood cells?

Hemoglobin transports oxygen to body tissues and removes carbon dioxide.

What lab findings indicate iron deficiency anemia?

Low hemoglobin, low hematocrit, decreased serum ferritin, and microcytic, hypochromic RBCs.

Why is cow’s milk consumption limited in toddlers to prevent anemia?

Excessive milk intake can lead to iron deficiency by displacing iron-rich foods in the diet and causing microscopic intestinal bleeding.

What are signs of lead toxicity in children?

Irritability, abdominal pain, constipation, developmental delays, and anemia.

How does universal lead screening benefit children?

It helps identify exposure early, allowing for intervention before long-term damage occurs.

What are the early signs of a vaso-occlusive crisis in sickle cell anemia?

Severe pain, swelling (dactylitis), and joint tenderness.

Why is fever considered an emergency in children with sickle cell anemia?

Fever may indicate infection, which can rapidly progress to life-threatening sepsis.

What is the role of hydration in preventing sickle cell crises?

Adequate hydration reduces blood viscosity, decreasing the risk of vaso-occlusion.

What prophylactic treatment is given to young children with sickle cell anemia to prevent infection?

Daily penicillin prophylaxis and routine vaccinations, including the pneumococcal and meningococcal vaccines.

What is the main treatment goal for idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP)?

Prevent bleeding and maintain a safe platelet count.

Why is RICE used for hemarthrosis in hemophilia patients?

It helps reduce bleeding, swelling, and pain in affected joints.

What is the recommended action if a child with hemophilia experiences a significant bleed?

Administer clotting factor replacement immediately and transport the child to a medical facility.

What education should be provided to parents of children with von Willebrand disease?

Teach injury prevention, importance of factor replacement therapy, and when to seek medical attention for prolonged bleeding.

How does DDAVP (desmopressin) work in treating mild hemophilia A and von Willebrand disease?

DDAVP stimulates the release of stored clotting factor VIII and von Willebrand factor from blood vessels.

What dietary changes can help manage anemia in children?

Increase intake of iron-rich foods and pair them with vitamin C-rich foods for better absorption.

What environmental interventions help prevent lead poisoning in children?

Regularly wash hands and toys, remove lead-based paint, and use filtered water if lead pipes are present.

What is the significance of petechiae and purpura in ITP?

These are signs of platelet dysfunction and increased bleeding risk.

What complications can arise from untreated sickle cell anemia?

Stroke, acute chest syndrome, splenic sequestration, and chronic organ damage.

How can you differentiate between hemophilia and von Willebrand disease?

Hemophilia is an X-linked deficiency of clotting factors VIII or IX, while von Willebrand disease involves a deficiency or dysfunction of von Willebrand factor, affecting platelet function and factor VIII stability.