Choice A rationale:

Administering iron supplements as prescribed.

Administering iron supplements is the primary treatment for iron-deficiency anemia.

However, in severe cases of anemia where the patient is symptomatic or unresponsive to iron supplements, blood transfusions may be necessary.

Choice B rationale:

Administering erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs)

ESAs can be used in the treatment of anemia, especially in chronic kidney disease patients, but they are not typically the first-line treatment for iron-deficiency anemia.

Iron replacement therapy is the primary approach to managing this condition.

Choice C rationale:

Administering blood transfusions as prescribed.

Administering blood transfusions is the correct choice for severe cases of iron-deficiency anemia that do not respond to iron supplements.

Blood transfusions can quickly increase the patient's red blood cell count and alleviate symptoms.

Choice D rationale:

Encouraging the patient to eat a balanced diet rich in iron.

Encouraging a balanced diet is important for preventing and managing iron-deficiency anemia, but it is not typically reserved for severe or symptomatic cases that do not respond to iron supplements.

In such cases, more immediate interventions like blood transfusions may be necessary.