Red blood cell physiology, Epoetin alfa, and iron.

Optimal development of red blood cells (RBCs) in dialysis patients depends on an appropriate mix of Epoetin alfa and iron; the former provides the stimulus for RBC production, while the latter supports the formation of heme. Nephrology nurses are frequently empowered to manage anemia outcomes in the dialysis population, so an understanding of the physiology of RBC development and the roles of Epoetin alfa and iron is therefore essential.