Brunner & Suddarth's Textbook of Medical-Surgical Nursing 14e (Hinkle 2017) - Assessment of Hematologic Function and Treatment Modalities Related

Review Brunner & Suddarth's Textbook of Medical-Surgical Nursing 14e (Hinkle 2017) - Assessment of Hematologic Function and Treatment Modalities related questions and content

A patient is being treated for the effects of a longstanding vitamin B12 deficiency. What aspect of the patients health history would most likely predispose her to this deficiency?

  • A. The patient has irregular menstrual periods.
  • B. The patient is a vegan.
  • C. The patient donated blood 60 days ago.
  • D. The patient frequently smokes marijuana.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Because vitamin B12 is found only in foods of animal origin, strict vegetarians may ingest little vitamin B12. Irregular menstrual periods, marijuana use, and blood donation would not precipitate a vitamin B12 deficiency.