When the cancer patient becomes anemic

Abstract

Most patients with cancer have some degree of anemia. This is usually multifactorial with a complex etiology. In some patients the hematocrit falls more dramatically. The nurse practitioner will need to classify the anemia based on routine lab values and assess the patient for anemia due to blood loss, hemolysis, treatment, chronic disease, or dietary deficiency. Patients and families often believe they may be responsible for the problem. Patient counseling about the reasons for anemia associated with cancer, and dietary advice, are important.