Nokea
Which of the following blood study results would the nurse expect as most likely when caring for the child with iron deficiency anemia?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Iron deficiency anemia is characterized by a decreased mean corpuscular volume (MCV) due to the microcytic red blood cells that result from inadequate iron availability for hemoglobin synthesis. This leads to smaller red blood cells, which are reflected in a decreased MCV. Iron deficiency anemia would not typically result in an increased hemoglobin or normal hematocrit since the lack of iron impairs the production of red blood cells. Additionally, the total iron-binding capacity (TIBC) would usually be increased in iron deficiency anemia as the body attempts to compensate for the decreased iron levels by increasing its ability to bind and transport iron. Therefore, the nurse would expect a decreased mean corpuscular volume (MCV) in a child with iron deficiency anemia.