Why do nurses check iron level?

Iron level are checked as a part of complete blood count (CBC) test to evaluate a person's overall health and to identify potential underlying medical conditions. Here's why nurses check iron levels:

1. Anemia Detection: Iron is a crucial component of hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen to tissues. Low iron level can lead to anemia, a condition characterized by reduced red blood cells or hemoglobin levels. Nurses check iron levels to diagnose anemia and monitor its severity.

2. Nutritional Assessment: Iron is essential micronutrient required by the body. Checking iron levels helps assess a person's nutritional status and identify potential iron deficiencies. Inadequate iron intake can cause iron-deficiency anemia.

3. Monitoring Chronic Conditions: Certain chronic conditions, such as heavy menstrual bleeding, gastrointestinal disorders, and chronic kidney disease, can lead to iron loss and increased risk of anemia. Nurses monitor iron levels in individuals with these conditions to ensure adequate iron stores and timely intervention.

4. Preconception and Pregnancy Care: Iron is vital during pregnancy as it supports the increased blood volume and the demands of growing fetus. Nurses check iron levels in pregnant women and individuals planning pregnancy to ensure adequate iron reserves and prevent iron-deficiency anemia, which can have adverse outcomes on fetal development.

5. Postoperative Care: After surgery, patients may experience blood loss, which can result in decreased iron levels. Nurses monitor iron levels as a part of postoperative care to assess the need for iron supplements and to prevent anemia.

6. Chronic Blood Loss: Iron levels may be checked if a person experiences unexplained or chronic blood loss, such as from gastrointestinal bleeding or heavy menstrual bleeding, to identify the underlying cause and monitor iron status.

7. Fatigue Investigations: Iron deficiency can lead to fatigue and tiredness. If a person complains of unexplained fatigue, nurses may check iron levels to rule out iron-deficiency anemia as a potential cause.