A nurse is caring for a client with megaloblastic anemia. Which vitamin deficiency is most likely responsible for this condition?

A) This choice is incorrect because vitamin A deficiency does not cause megaloblastic anemia.

B) This choice is correct because megaloblastic anemia is typically caused by a deficiency of vitamin B12 or folic acid, which are essential for normal red blood cell production.

C) This choice is incorrect because vitamin C deficiency leads to scurvy, a condition unrelated to megaloblastic anemia.

D) This choice is incorrect because vitamin D deficiency can lead to conditions like rickets, but it does not cause megaloblastic anemia.

A) This choice is correct. A vegetarian diet, especially if not well-balanced and lacking in iron-rich foods, can lead to iron-deficiency anemia.

B) This choice is incorrect. Chronic kidney disease is more likely to cause anemia due to impaired erythropoietin production rather than directly causing iron deficiency.

C) This choice is incorrect. Excessive red blood cell destruction is associated with hemolytic anemia, not iron-deficiency anemia.

D) This choice is correct. Gastrointestinal bleeding, such as from peptic ulcers or inflammatory bowel disease, can lead to chronic blood loss and iron-deficiency anemia.