Question 31

Drawing more than the recommended amount of an infant's blood volume may result in iatrogenic anemia.

Exceeding the recommended blood volume in an infant can lead to iatrogenic anemia, a condition resulting from medical intervention rather than a disease process. This occurs when blood is drawn excessively, reducing the infant's total blood volume and hemoglobin levels.

A) Pernicious anemia

Pernicious anemia is primarily associated with vitamin B12 deficiency due to malabsorption and is not directly related to excessive blood draws. Therefore, this option is incorrect as it does not pertain to the effects of drawing blood from an infant.

B) Iatrogenic anemia

Iatrogenic anemia is the correct answer because it specifically refers to anemia that occurs as a result of medical procedures, such as drawing too much blood from an infant. This condition can lead to significant health issues due to decreased oxygen-carrying capacity and other complications.

C) Hyperthermia

Hyperthermia refers to an elevated body temperature due to failed thermoregulation, often unrelated to blood volume issues. Excessive blood draws do not cause hyperthermia, making this option incorrect.

D) Hypothermia

Hypothermia is a condition characterized by abnormally low body temperature, which is not a direct consequence of drawing excess blood from an infant. Thus, this option is also incorrect in the context of the question.

Conclusion

Iatrogenic anemia is a direct result of drawing excessive blood from infants, making it the most relevant condition in this scenario. Other options, such as pernicious anemia, hyperthermia, and hypothermia, do not relate to the issue of blood volume reduction and are therefore not applicable. Understanding the consequences of excessive blood draws is crucial for ensuring infant safety and health.