Anemia and Patient Blood Management Video
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What is Anemia?
Anemia is a medical term that means that a person does not have enough red blood cells. Red blood cells contain hemoglobin which is a protein that carries oxygen from your lungs to the tissue and organs in your body.
Anemia is a common disorder that can be temporary or long term. it can range from mild to severe. There are different types of anemia. The most common form of anemia is due to iron deficiency.
Common Symptoms of Anemia
- Feeling weak and tired
- Difficulty concentrating
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Headache
- Dizziness or fainting
Anemia and Surgery
Anemia can be seen in 30-70% of patients going for surgery. After surgery, anemia is even more common.
Patients who are anemic before surgery are more likely to require a blood transfusion, have a higher risk of infection and complications, and have longer hospital stays
Treating anemia before surgery is important if you are undergoing surgery that can have significant blood loss. Examples of this are total hip replacement, total knee replacement and cardiac surgery.
If you are scheduled for surgery talk to your health care provider about your hemoglobin. count.
How Do You Know If You Are Anemic
Talk to your healthcare provider. They can order the appropriate blood tests
How is Anemia Treated?
The treatment for anemia varies depending on its cause. Your health care provider will develop a treatment plan that is best for you
Resources
Iron Deficiency Anemia: Information for patients and families (click on the link)
Blood Works An Owners Guide
An excellent book
:www.bloodworksbook.com
Let's talk Patient Blood Management Podcast (MaryAnn Sromoski & Sarah Walbolt)
Episode: More than two billion people have anemia: How's your blood health?
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