Iron-Deficiency Anemia Vocabulary Flashcards

Comprehensive vocabulary flashcards covering the definitions, clinical manifestations, lab indices, medications, dietary interactions, and nursing priorities for Iron-Deficiency Anemia.

Iron-Deficiency Anemia (IDA)

The most common type of anemia, occurring when the body lacks sufficient iron to produce adequate hemoglobin, resulting in reduced oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood.

Microcytic, Hypochromic RBCs

Red blood cells that are small in size (decreased MCV) and pale in color (decreased MCH/MCHC) due to reduced hemoglobin production.

Koilonychia

Brittle or spoon-shaped nails that can occur as a manifestation of severe or prolonged iron deficiency.

Glossitis

Inflammation of the tongue, which is an expected clinical finding in severe or prolonged iron deficiency.

Angular Cheilitis

Inflammation and cracking at the corners of the mouth associated with severe or prolonged iron deficiency.

Pica

The craving and consumption of non-food substances, which serves as a classic clinical clue for iron deficiency.

Pagophagia

The specific craving for ice, which is a common form of pica seen in iron deficiency.

Serum Ferritin

A key laboratory indicator of stored body iron; decreased levels indicate depleted iron stores, though it can also be elevated by inflammation.

Total Iron-Binding Capacity (TIBC)

A laboratory measurement of the blood's capacity to bind iron with transferrin; an elevated TIBC indicates that the body is attempting to capture more iron.

Transferrin Saturation

The percentage of transferrin that is bound to iron, which is decreased in iron-deficiency anemia.

Oral Iron Formulations

Medications used for iron replacement therapy, commonly including ferrous sulfate, ferrous gluconate, or ferrous fumarate.

Intravenous (IV) Iron

Parenteral iron therapy used when oral iron is ineffective, poorly tolerated, not absorbed adequately, or when rapid replacement is needed; requires caution due to risk of hypersensitivity reactions.

Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)

A nutrient found in citrus fruits, orange juice, strawberries, and bell peppers that increases the intestinal absorption of oral and plant-based iron when taken together.

Iron Absorption Inhibitors

Substances such as milk/dairy products, calcium supplements, antacids, and tea/coffee that reduce iron absorption when taken at the same time.

Oral Iron Side Effects

Expected non-hazardous side effects of oral iron therapy including black or greenish stools, constipation, nausea, and abdominal discomfort.

NCLEX Priority Symptoms in IDA

Critical manifestations including severe shortness of breath, chest pain, syncope, significant tachycardia, hypotension, and altered mental status that require prioritizing ABCs and tissue oxygenation.

Blood Transfusion in IDA

A therapeutic procedure indicated for severe or symptomatic anemia to improve oxygen delivery, which does not correct the underlying iron deficiency.

Iron Toxicity Risk

A severe pediatric safety consideration warning that iron supplements kept within reach of children can cause fatal overdose.