A client with suspected vitamin B12 deficiency anemia presents with symptoms of confusion, irritability, and depression.
The nurse observes these neuropsychiatric symptoms during the assessment.
Which of the following statements best describes the significance of these symptoms in relation to vitamin B12 deficiency anemia?

Choice A rationale:

Jaundice is not a typical manifestation of vitamin B12 deficiency anemia.

It is more commonly associated with liver dysfunction or hemolytic anemias.

Choice B rationale:

This is a correct answer.

Glossitis, which is inflammation of the tongue, can be a clinical manifestation of vitamin B12 deficiency anemia.

The tongue may appear red and swollen.

Choice C rationale:

This is a correct answer.

Peripheral neuropathy, characterized by tingling, numbness, and weakness in the extremities, can result from long-term vitamin B12 deficiency.

Choice D rationale:

Increased platelet count (thrombocytosis) is not a typical manifestation of vitamin B12 deficiency anemia.

It may occur in other conditions, such as inflammation or reactive thrombocytosis.

Choice E rationale:

This is a correct answer.

Oval-shaped red blood cells (macro-ovalocytes) can be observed in the blood smear of individuals with vitamin B12 deficiency anemia.

These abnormally shaped red blood cells are a characteristic finding.

Choice A rationale:

Assessing vital signs is important for overall patient assessment, but it is not the most crucial aspect when identifying signs of pallor or jaundice.

Vital signs help in evaluating the patient's general condition and stability.

Choice B rationale:

Heart sounds are important for assessing cardiac function and may provide information on the patient's cardiovascular status, but they are not the most crucial aspect when identifying signs of pallor or jaundice.

Choice C rationale:

Lung sounds are essential for evaluating the respiratory status of the patient, but they do not directly help in identifying signs of pallor or jaundice.

Choice D rationale:

The correct choice is D.

When assessing a patient with suspected vitamin B12 deficiency anemia, it is crucial to examine the skin, mucous membranes, and eyes.

Pallor (pale skin) and jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes) are common signs of anemia, and these can be detected through the inspection of the skin, mucous membranes (such as the inside of the mouth), and the whites of the eyes (sclera)

These signs are indicative of an underlying health issue, and identifying them is essential for the diagnosis and management of anemia.