A client with anemia is undergoing a Schilling test to determine the cause of the condition. The nurse should recognize that this test is used to diagnose which type of anemia?

A) This choice is incorrect because ESA therapy is not typically associated with hypotension. In fact, an increase in blood pressure is a potential side effect of ESAs.

B) This choice is incorrect because hypokalemia (low potassium levels) is not a common adverse effect of ESA therapy.

C) This choice is incorrect because hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) is not a typical side effect of ESA therapy.

D) This choice is correct. ESA therapy can increase the risk of thrombosis (blood clot formation) due to the stimulation of red blood cell production. Clients receiving ESAs should be monitored for signs of thrombosis, such as swelling, pain, and redness in the extremities.

A) This choice is incorrect because iron-deficiency anemia is associated with microcytic and hypochromic red blood cells, not macrocytic and normochromic cells.

B) This choice is incorrect because aplastic anemia typically presents with normocytic and normochromic red blood cells.

C) This choice is incorrect because sickle cell anemia does not cause macrocytic and normochromic red blood cells.

D) This choice is correct. Megaloblastic anemia is characterized by macrocytic (large) and normochromic (normal color) red blood cells, which are the result of impaired DNA synthesis during red blood cell production. This condition is often caused by vitamin B12 or folate deficiency.

Questions