PURPOSE; B12 IM

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Ok so I could use a little help here. Im a student LPN and I'm half way through my second clinical and I have a question regarding the purpose of a VITAMIN b12 IM injection. My clinical instructor wants to know why we would use the IM route in geriatric clients. So, I know that B12 is indicated for anemia but, I dont know why IM would be used instead of PO. Is it because of metabolism or excretion. Can anybody help?

Thanks in advance

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Basically, in order for B12 to be absorbed it binds to instrinsic factor in the stomach. B12 deficiency can occur when instrinsic factor is not being produced and then B12 cannot be absorbed. The elderly are at risk due to a decrease in production of instrinsic factor. Because it cannot be absorbed through the digestive route, it is given by IM injection.

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research how Vitamin B12 is broken down and absorbed, this will lead you to your answer.

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Thanks guys this will give me a good place to start; thank you thank you

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Specializes in CVICU, CT Transplant, Transplant ICU, CV Step down.

I'm kind of late but, when patient's suffer from pernicious anemia (usually happens with aging process) the body doesn't produce the intrinsic factor which is the reason they get monthly B12 injections..

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Thank you for all of your help! My clinical instructor revealed that in this case, B12 is administered to certain individuals to slow S&S of dementias

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Thank you for all of your help! My clinical instructor revealed that in this case, B12 is administered to certain individuals to slow S&S of dementias

Treasure that instructor!

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You don't know the half of it! Out of all of the nurses that I have met in school and in the field, she is so incredibly knowledgeable and inspiring. She makes you think

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