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Iron Deficiency with or without Anemia Clinical Pathway – Primary Care, Emergency Department, and Inpatient – Follow-Up Lab Guidance

Iron Deficiency with or without Anemia Clinical Pathway – Primary Care, Emergency Department, and Inpatient

Follow-Up Lab Guidance

Anemia Level and Treatment Received Timing of Initial Follow-Up CBC, Retic Subsequent Labs If Initial Follow-Up CBC Demonstrates Adequate Response
Mild Iron Deficiency
With or without anemia
1 mo
  • 3–4 mos
  • CBC, retic and iron studies
Moderate IDA 2–4 wks
Severe IDA
Oral iron only
1–2 wks
  • 1 mo
  • CBC, retic
  • 3–4 mos
  • CBC, retic and iron studies
Severe IDA
IV iron with or without PRBC transfusion
1 mo
  • 3–4 mos
  • CBC with retic and iron studies
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