A client with pernicious anemia is receiving parenteral vitamin B12 therapy. Which client statement indicates effective teaching about this therapy?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct client statement indicating effective teaching about parenteral vitamin B12 therapy for pernicious anemia is, "I will receive parenteral vitamin B12 therapy for the rest of my life." Pernicious anemia is a condition in which the body cannot absorb enough vitamin B12 from food due to a lack of intrinsic factor, a protein produced in the stomach. As a result, lifelong B12 supplementation is necessary to maintain adequate levels of the vitamin. Monthly injections are typically recommended for life to ensure proper B12 levels and prevent complications associated with the deficiency.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Neutrophils are the most numerous type of white blood cell (WBC) in the body, comprising about 60-70% of the total WBC count. They are a critical component of the immune system, playing a key role in fighting bacterial infections through phagocytosis (engulfing and destroying pathogens). Neutrophils are known for their rapid response to infections and are often the first responders to sites of inflammation. Their abundance and rapid mobilization make them essential in the body's defense against harmful pathogens.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Anemia is a condition characterized by a decrease in the concentration of red blood cells in the blood. This can result from various factors such as decreased production of red blood cells, increased destruction of red blood cells, or blood loss. Hemoglobin levels are often used to diagnose anemia, but the key feature of anemia is the decrease in the number of red blood cells, leading to reduced oxygen-carrying capacity in the blood. This in turn can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Leukemia is a type of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow, leading to an overproduction of abnormal white blood cells. The symptoms of leukemia can include fatigue, weakness, weight loss, frequent infections, fever, bruising or bleeding easily, and bone pain. Given the vague presenting symptoms and the potential involvement of multiple bodily systems, leukemia is a condition that should be suspected and investigated further. Anemia, rheumatic arthritis, and systematic lupus erythematosus can also present with some similar symptoms, but for the given scenario, leukemia is the most probable condition to suspect.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Calcium is the mineral necessary for chemical clotting. When there is a cut or injury that causes bleeding, the body's clotting process is initiated to stop the bleeding. Calcium ions play a crucial role in several steps of the clotting cascade, helping to activate various clotting factors and promoting the formation of a stable blood clot. Without sufficient calcium, the blood would not be able to clot properly, leading to potential complications with excessive bleeding.