The nurse is caring for a client with vitamin B12 deficiency anemia. Which physical assessment finding would the nurse expect to note in this client?

  1. glossitis
  2. paresthesias
  3. weakness and pallor
  4. dark purple or cyanotic skin on the face and mucous membranes
Number 1 is correct.
Rationale: Glossitis, or a smooth tongue, is a sign of vitamin B12 deficiency anemia. Inflammation causes the tongue to appear smooth. Paresthesias are found in pernicious anemia. Weakness and pallor are found in iron deficiency anemia. Dark purple or cyanotic skin on the face and mucous membranes are signs of polycythemia vera.