Peds II

Question 1

Why is it that there is a decrease in RBC following birth?

Answer 1

Lower need for oxygen carrying capacity, since breathing is more efficient than attempting to get it from maternal blood

Question 2

What is the significance of tachycardia in anemia?

Answer 2

if Fe deficiency, makes it suspicious for acute loss

Question 3

What is the best way to differentiate between Fe deficiency anemia and beta-thalassemia?

Answer 3

Uniform vs high RDW