Guidance on managing iron-deficiency anaemia published

Guidance to help nurses offer effective management for people with iron-deficiency anaemia has been published by the RCN.

Iron-deficiency anaemia (IDA) is caused by a lack of iron in the body, resulting in a reduction in red blood cells. Left untreated, it can result in time off work, surgery and blood transfusions.

The guidance has been published alongside a range of other resources to help nurses understand the condition.

The resources, developed by the RCN gastrointestinal forum, provides guidance for nurses in identifying the condition and the various ways to treat it, from dietary supplements to intravenous iron. 

Isobel Mason, nurse consultant in gastroenterology at the Royal Free Hospital in London and RCN project lead said: ‘Iron-deficiency anaemia is easily treated, but a lack of awareness and training has led to it often becoming a serious problem for patients – and a heavy expense for health services. Our resources will help nurses treat the condition efficiently and hopefully help prevent further health issues for patients.’

Read the guidance here