Medical Laboratory Scientist ASCP Practice Exam 2025 – Complete Study Guide

Patients undergoing chronic hemodialysis are often at risk of developing anemia and deficiencies in certain vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin B12. The primary reason for this increased risk is that hemodialysis can lead to a loss of water-soluble vitamins, including B12, from the bloodstream during the dialysis process.

Vitamin B12 is essential for the production of red blood cells and the proper functioning of the nervous system. Patients with diminished levels of this vitamin might experience symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, neurological issues, and macrocytic anemia. Therefore, supplementation becomes necessary to restore adequate levels in those who are unable to absorb enough from dietary sources or who lose significant amounts during dialysis.

In contrast, while treatments like increased iron intake and folic acid supplementation may be important for managing anemia, they do not specifically address the Vitamin B12 deficiency directly linked to the dialysis process. Long-term antibiotic therapy is generally unrelated to the management of Vitamin B12 levels and is not a standard treatment for potential deficiencies in this context. Thus, Vitamin B12 supplementation is the most appropriate measure for patients on chronic hemodialysis.