Hemolytic Anemia

Hemolytic Anemia

Ø A State wherein the is an increase rate of RBC destruction

Ø Cause is often unknown. Maybe congenital (G6PD, sickle cell, thalassemia) or acquired (tranfussion incompatibilities,DIC)

Ø RBC lifespan is decreased (less than 120 days) that bone marrow can’t compensate for

Manifestations

Ø Vary depending on severity

Ø Pallor, slight jaundice

Ø Chills, fever, irritability,

Ø Pericordial spasm and pain

Ø Abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, melena

Ø Spleenomegaly, hepathomegaly

Laboratory

Ø Hgb and Hct decrease

Ø Reticulocyte count elevated (compensatory)

Ø Coomb’s test: positive if autoimmune in origin

Ø Bilirubin: elevated

Management

Ø Identify and treat causative factors

Ø Corticosteroids for autoimmune

Ø Folic acid supplements

Ø Blood transfussion

Nursing Intervention

Ø Monitor signs and symptoms of hypoxia: confusion, cyanosis, dyspnea, tachycardia, palpitations

Ø Note presence of jaundice

Ø If pruritus is present, avoid harsh soap on bath, and use cold or tepid water

Ø Frequent turning and meticulous skin care

Ø Mange fatigue by providing period of rests

Ø Teach client about nature of dse and avoid predisposing factors: stress

Sources: Brunner and Suddarth's textbook of Medical-Surgical Nursing, Frizzell- handbook of pathophysiology, Saunder's Manual of Nursing Care, Lippincott's Critical Care Challenges