You are planning to transfuse a unit of PRBC's to your patient. You know that when you arrive at the blood bank and they hand you the unit of blood, you have how long to start the transfusion from that time?

A. Chronic blood loss is one of the most common causes of iron deficiency anemia. Conditions such as gastrointestinal bleeding (e.g., from ulcers, polyps, or cancer), heavy menstrual periods, or chronic blood donation can lead to a gradual loss of iron, resulting in anemia.
B. While liver problems can lead to various blood disorders, they are not a direct cause of iron deficiency anemia. Liver disease can affect iron metabolism and storage but does not typically cause iron deficiency unless accompanied by chronic blood loss or malnutrition.
C. Decreased folic acid absorption leads to folate deficiency anemia, not iron deficiency anemia. While folate is important for red blood cell production, it does not directly influence iron levels. This option is not a common cause of iron deficiency anemia.
D. Low dietary intake of iron is a well-known cause of iron deficiency anemia. Diets lacking in iron-rich foods (such as red meat, beans, and fortified cereals) can lead to insufficient iron stores and subsequent anemia.

A. Aging can lead to changes in immune function, including alterations in white blood cell counts. While absolute counts may not be drastically lower, the immune response may be less effective. This is important information as it helps the patient understand their altered immune status and potential infection risks.
B. Older adults may have a diminished immune response, which can lead to false-negative results in tuberculosis skin tests (e.g., PPD test). This is crucial information, as it can affect diagnosis and treatment decisions, highlighting the need for alternative screening methods.
C. Vaccinations are critical for older adults to help prevent infections. Influenza, pneumococcal, and shingles vaccines can significantly reduce the risk of these infections, which are more severe in the elderly. This is an essential component of their health maintenance.
D. Older adults are at increased risk for respiratory tract infections (like pneumonia) and genitourinary infections (like urinary tract infections) due to factors such as comorbidities and changes in immune function. Educating clients about these risks helps them recognize symptoms and seek timely care.
E. Older adults often require booster vaccinations to maintain immunity, as their immune response may diminish over time. This misinformation could lead to increased susceptibility to vaccine-preventable diseases.
F. It is common for elderly individuals to present with atypical signs of infection, including the absence of fever even in severe cases. This is important for both the patient and caregivers to understand, as it may lead to delayed recognition and treatment of infections.