Physiologic sequelae of prematurity: the nurse practitioner's role. Part IV. Anemia

Anemia in the immediate newborn period may be caused by hemolysis, by a failure of red-cell production, or by a combination of both. However, anemia of prematurity often is the result of hemolysis, of a lack of erythropoietin, and/or of nutritional deficits. Transfusion without a search for the cause may obscure the underlying pathology of the anemia. Because severe anemia can be life-threatening, prompt diagnosis and treatment are required. In this article, the fourth of a series of articles on the sequelae of prematurity, a discussion of the pathophysiology, signs and symptoms, data collection, treatment modalities pertinent to the anemia of prematurity, and parental education are discussed.