Anemia

Care Plan for Anemia

Category / Primary Body System:

Hematologic System

Problem:

Patient is at risk of complications due to diagnosis of anemia.

Goal:

Patient will not have complications due to anemia (e.g., increased fatigue and dizziness) as evidenced by being able to participate in ADLs if able for 90 days.

Plan/Approach:

1. Monitor for Symptoms:

   • Step-by-Step Approach: Regularly assess for signs of fatigue, dizziness, and other symptoms of anemia.
   • Technological Aids: Utilize electronic health records (EHR) for tracking symptoms and lab results.
   • Educational Efforts: Educate the patient on recognizing symptoms and the importance of reporting them.
   • Engagement in Diversional Activities: Encourage light activities to maintain physical engagement without overexertion.

2. Lab Monitoring:

   • Step-by-Step Approach: Schedule regular blood tests to monitor hemoglobin, hematocrit, and other relevant parameters.
   • Technological Aids: Use EHR to schedule and track lab tests.
   • Educational Efforts: Inform the patient about the importance of lab tests and how they help manage anemia.

3. Medication Administration:

   • Step-by-Step Approach: Administer iron supplements, erythropoietin, or other prescribed treatments.
   • Technological Aids: Use medication administration records (MAR) to ensure timely administration.
   • Educational Efforts: Educate the patient about their medications, potential side effects, and the importance of adherence.

4. Diet and Nutrition:

   • Step-by-Step Approach: Provide a diet plan focusing on iron-rich foods and arrange for a dietary consult if needed.
   • Technological Aids: Utilize nutritional software for planning and monitoring dietary intake.
   • Educational Efforts: Teach the patient about dietary sources of iron and how to incorporate them into meals.

5. Monitor for Bleeding:

   • Step-by-Step Approach: Regularly check for signs of bleeding such as bruising, bleeding gums, or blood in stool.
   • Technological Aids: Use EHR for documentation and alerts.
   • Educational Efforts: Educate the patient on signs of bleeding and when to seek help.

6. Patient Education:

   • Step-by-Step Approach: Provide comprehensive education about anemia, its management, and the importance of following the care plan.
   • Educational Efforts: Use brochures, videos, and one-on-one teaching sessions.

7. Assist with ADLs:

   • Step-by-Step Approach: Provide support with activities of daily living to ensure the patient can participate without excessive fatigue.
   • Technological Aids: Use assistive devices as needed.
   • Educational Efforts: Teach energy conservation techniques.

Rationale:

• Monitoring Symptoms: Early detection of worsening symptoms can prevent complications.
• Lab Monitoring: Regular blood tests help in assessing the effectiveness of treatment.
• Medication Administration: Proper medication management can alleviate symptoms and improve patient outcomes.
• Diet and Nutrition: Adequate nutrition supports overall health and can improve anemia.
• Monitoring for Bleeding: Identifying and addressing bleeding promptly can prevent severe complications.
• Patient Education: Informed patients are better equipped to manage their health.
• Assisting with ADLs: Ensuring the patient can perform daily activities without excessive fatigue helps maintain their quality of life.

Actions:

1. Monitor Symptoms:

   • Check for signs of fatigue and dizziness daily.
   • Document findings in EHR.

2. Lab Monitoring:

   • Schedule and perform blood tests as ordered.
   • Review and report results to the physician.

3. Medication Administration:

   • Administer medications according to the physician's orders.
   • Monitor for side effects and document adherence.

4. Diet and Nutrition:

   • Provide a diet plan focusing on iron-rich foods.
   • Schedule a dietary consult if needed.

5. Monitor for Bleeding:

   • Check for signs of bleeding daily.
   • Notify the physician if any signs are observed.

6. Patient Education:

   • Provide educational materials and sessions about anemia and its management.

7. Assist with ADLs:

   • Support the patient in daily activities and use assistive devices as needed.