Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Practice Exam

Which of the following would be considered a strong indicator for ordering a TIBC test?

1. Presence of jaundice

2. Suspected iron deficiency anemia

3. History of diabetes

4. Suspicion of liver dysfunction

The correct answer is: Suspected iron deficiency anemia

When evaluating the need for a Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC) test, the strongest indicator among the options provided is the suspicion of iron deficiency anemia. TIBC is used primarily to assess the body's ability to bind iron with transferrin, which is crucial in the diagnosis and management of iron metabolism disorders. Iron deficiency anemia occurs when there is insufficient iron available for red blood cell production. In such cases, the body increases transferrin production to maximize iron binding, leading to elevated TIBC levels. Therefore, when iron deficiency anemia is suspected, measuring TIBC alongside serum iron and ferritin levels is essential to determine the iron status of the patient and to support an accurate diagnosis. Other conditions, such as liver dysfunction, may affect iron metabolism and alter TIBC results but are not as direct an indicator for ordering this specific test focused on iron deficiency. Similarly, jaundice can indicate a range of underlying issues but doesn't specifically point to iron binding capacity alterations. A history of diabetes does not have a direct link to the evaluation of iron stores or transport in the body, making it less relevant to the decision to order a TIBC test.