How should the nurse practitioner classify anemia if the mean corpuscular volume (MCV) is 110 fL and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) is 40 g/dL?

In this case, the classification of anemia is based on the mean corpuscular volume (MCV) and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC).

The MCV value of 110 fL indicates that the red blood cells are larger than normal, which is characteristic of macrocytic anemia. This enlargement can be attributed to various factors, such as vitamin B12 or folate deficiency, where the synthesis of DNA and subsequent cell division is impaired, leading to larger cells.

Additionally, the MCHC of 40 g/dL is above the normal range, suggesting that the cells have a higher than normal concentration of hemoglobin. This elevated MCHC value is indicative of hyperchromic red blood cells, meaning that they have increased hemoglobin saturation.

Putting this together, the presence of macrocytic cells combined with hyperchromic characteristics confirms the classification of the anemia as macrocytic and hyperchromic. This understanding is key in determining underlying causes and appropriate treatment for the patient.