Anemia Nursing Diagnosis & Care Plans

nemia is one of the most common conditions nursing students encounter during clinical rotations and on the NCLEX exam. It occurs when there are not enough healthy red blood cells or when hemoglobin levels fall too low to carry oxygen effectively. The result? Fatigue, dizziness, and poor tissue oxygenation.

In this guide, you’ll review key anemia nursing diagnoses, interventions with rationales, and desired outcomes—plus a link to a printable care plan bundle to make studying easier.

Assessment Checklist

Observe for:

  • Pallor of skin and mucous membranes

  • Fatigue, dizziness, shortness of breath

  • Cold hands and feet

Assess:

  • Vital signs (tachycardia, low BP)

  • Capillary refill and oxygen saturation

  • Lab values (low hemoglobin, hematocrit, or iron levels)

Common Nursing Diagnoses:

  • Fatigue related to decreased oxygen-carrying capacity

  • Activity Intolerance related to imbalance between oxygen supply and demand

  • Imbalanced Nutrition related to inadequate iron intake

Nursing Care Plan #1: Fatigue Related to Decreased Oxygen-Carrying Capacity

Nursing Diagnosis:
Fatigue related to decreased oxygen-carrying capacity secondary to low hemoglobin as evidenced by patient’s report of tiredness and inability to perform normal tasks.

Related Factors/Causes:

  • Reduced hemoglobin concentration

  • Tissue hypoxia

Nursing Interventions and Rationales

  • Encourage rest periods between activities.
    Rationale: Conserves energy and prevents overexertion while the body compensates for low oxygen levels.*

  • Assist with daily care activities when needed.
    Rationale: Provides support while allowing the patient to maintain independence.*

  • Monitor hemoglobin and hematocrit levels.
    Rationale: Evaluates the severity of anemia and tracks treatment response.*

  • Encourage a diet high in iron and protein.
    Rationale: Nutrient-rich foods promote red blood cell production and energy.*

Desired Outcomes:
The patient reports less fatigue and demonstrates improved activity tolerance.

Nursing Care Plan #2: Activity Intolerance Related to Imbalance Between Oxygen Supply and Demand

Nursing Diagnosis:
Activity Intolerance related to imbalance between oxygen supply and demand as evidenced by shortness of breath, pallor, and tachycardia with exertion.

Related Factors/Causes:

  • Reduced tissue oxygenation

  • Anemia and weakness

Nursing Interventions and Rationales

  • Encourage gradual increase in activity level.
    Rationale: Allows the cardiovascular system to adapt without excessive stress.*

  • Monitor pulse oximetry during physical activity.
    Rationale: Detects decreased oxygenation early.*

  • Provide emotional reassurance.
    Rationale: Reduces anxiety, which can further increase oxygen demand.*

  • Allow rest after meals and procedures.
    Rationale: Prevents post-exertional fatigue.*

Desired Outcomes:
Patient performs light activities without significant fatigue or dyspnea.

Nursing Care Plan #3: Imbalanced Nutrition: Less Than Body Requirements

Nursing Diagnosis:
Imbalanced Nutrition: Less Than Body Requirements related to insufficient iron and vitamin intake as evidenced by low hemoglobin, brittle nails, and decreased appetite.

Related Factors/Causes:

  • Poor dietary habits or malabsorption

  • Increased metabolic demands

Nursing Interventions and Rationales

  • Encourage small, frequent meals high in iron and folate.
    Rationale: Improves intake and prevents fatigue during eating.*

  • Teach the importance of vitamin C to aid iron absorption.
    Rationale: Enhances dietary iron utilization.*

  • Provide patient education on iron supplement use.
    Rationale: Ensures adherence and prevents side effects such as constipation.*

  • Monitor weight and appetite regularly.
    Rationale: Assesses effectiveness of nutritional interventions.*

Desired Outcomes:
The patient demonstrates improved appetite, stable weight, and normalizing hemoglobin levels.

Study Tip / Download CTA

💡 Study Tip: Understanding anemia care plans is essential for both clinical and NCLEX success.

📘 Download your printable “Cardiac Care Plan Bundle” — a student-friendly pack with step-by-step care plans and interventions.
This resource helps nursing students learn how to write complete care plans efficiently for exams and clinical paperwork.

FAQs

1. What is the main cause of anemia in nursing patients?
Iron deficiency from chronic blood loss or poor diet is the most common cause.

2. Which nursing diagnosis is a priority for anemia?
Fatigue or Activity Intolerance are common priority problems due to reduced oxygen delivery.

3. How can nurses improve outcomes for anemic patients?
Encourage balanced nutrition, monitor oxygenation, and educate about supplement adherence.

Peer-Reviewed References

  • Lewis, S. L., et al. Medical-Surgical Nursing: Assessment and Management of Clinical Problems. 11th ed. Elsevier.

  • Gulanick, M., & Myers, J. L. Nursing Care Plans: Diagnoses, Interventions, and Outcomes. 10th ed. Elsevier.

  • Ignatavicius, D. D., et al. Concepts for Interprofessional Collaborative Care. 9th ed. Elsevier.

  • NANDA International. Nursing Diagnoses: Definitions and Classification, 2024–2026.

  • Smeltzer, S. C., et al. Brunner & Suddarth’s Textbook of Medical-Surgical Nursing. 15th ed. Lippincott.

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