Classification
Anemias are classified in relation to etiology or physiology, manifested by erythocyte or Hgb depletion; and morphology, the characteristic changes in RBC size, shape, or color. Although the morphologic classification is more useful in terms of laboratory evaluation of anemia, the etiologic approach provides direction for planning nursing care. For example, anemia with reduced Hgb concentration may be caused by a dietary depletion of iron, and the principal intervention is replenishing iron stores. The classification of anemias is found in Fig.