A nurse is caring for a young female adult client who reports weakness, fatigue, and heavy menstrual periods. The client has a hemoglobin level of 8 g/dL and a hematocrit level of 28 g/dL. The nurse suspect which of the following types of anemia?

A. Folic acid deficiency anemia typically develops due to inadequate dietary intake, malabsorption, or increased requirements (e.g., pregnancy). It often presents with fatigue, pallor, and glossitis, but it is less commonly associated with heavy menstrual bleeding as a primary cause. B. Iron-deficiency anemia is the most likely type in this client. Iron deficiency commonly results from chronic blood loss, and heavy menstrual periods (menorrhagia) are a frequent source of iron loss in young women. Classic manifestations include weakness, fatigue, pallor, and low hemoglobin and hematocrit, which align with this client’s laboratory findings (Hb 8 g/dL, Hct 28%). C. Pernicious anemia results from vitamin B12 deficiency due to intrinsic factor deficiency, often presenting with neurological symptoms (paresthesia, balance issues) and megaloblastic anemia. Heavy menstrual bleeding is not a typical cause, making this less likely. D. Sickle cell anemia is a genetic disorder causing abnormal hemoglobin (HbS) and typically presents with pain crises, jaundice, and hemolytic anemia. It is less common in this demographic if there is no history of sickle cell disease and does not explain heavy menstrual bleeding.