In assessing clients for pernicious anemia, the nurse should be alert for which of the following risk factors?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Positive family history. Pernicious anemia is an autoimmune condition where the body attacks its own intrinsic factor, leading to vitamin B12 deficiency. Genetic predisposition plays a significant role in the development of pernicious anemia. Family history is a key risk factor as individuals with a family history of pernicious anemia are more likely to develop the condition.
Summary of why the other choices are incorrect:
B: Infectious agents or toxins do not directly cause pernicious anemia, although they can lead to other types of anemia.
C: Acute or chronic blood loss can result in iron-deficiency anemia, not pernicious anemia.
D: Inadequate dietary intake of vitamin B12 can lead to vitamin B12 deficiency anemia, but pernicious anemia specifically involves the body's inability to absorb B12 due to intrinsic factor deficiency, not dietary intake alone.