Folic Acid Deficiency

Adult Nursing NCLEX Review Anemias, Aplastic Anemia, Polycythemia Vera, Thrombocytopenia and DIC Folic Acid Deficiency

Patho

⇓ RBC production due to lack of folic acid. Megaloplastic anemia

Low Energy

Fatigue, lethargy, & shortness of breath

Pallor

Pallor, headaches, & palpitations

Pregnancy

Pregnant women should take folic acid to prevent neuro tube defects

Check folate levels in patients taking anticonvulsants, alcohol, oral contraceptive, and methotrexate.
Increase Folic Acid Intake
Eat green leafy vegetables, spinach, lentils (legumes), cauliflower, citrus fruits, beets, asparagus, and bananas
Take a supplement, especially in pregnancy
Also take a B12