Physiologic sequelae of prematurity: the nurse practitioner's role. Part IV. Anemia.
Anemia in the immediate newborn period may be caused by hemolysis, by a failure of red-cell production, or by a combination of both. However, anemia of prematurity often is the result of hemolysis, of a lack of erythropoietin, and/or of nutritional deficits. Transfusion without a search for the cause may obscure the underlying pathology of the anemia. Because severe anemia can be life-threatening, prompt diagnosis and treatment are required. In this article, the fourth of a series of articles on the sequelae of prematurity, a discussion of the pathophysiology, signs and symptoms, data collection, treatment modalities pertinent to the anemia of prematurity, and parental education are discussed.
Hagedorn
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Gardner
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SL
D000751:Anemia, Neonatal / Q000451:nursing* / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy; D001803:Blood Transfusion / Q000451:nursing; D006801:Humans; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D007234:Infant, Premature; D009722:Nurse Practitioners; D009730:Nursing Assessment; D010290:Parents / Q000193:education