A client in the psychiatric unit's dayroom is becoming agitated, talking incessantly, and starting to yell and swear at the other clients.

Which action should the practical nurse (PN) implement first?

Correct Answer: B. Joint pain.

Choice B rationale:

Joint pain is the most common symptom experienced by individuals during a sickle cell crisis. The misshapen red blood cells can block blood flow to joints, leading to severe pain and inflammation. Joint pain is a hallmark sign of a sickle cell crisis, and managing pain is a critical aspect of caring for these patients.

Choice A rationale:

Decreased hemoglobin is not the expected symptom during a sickle cell crisis. A sickle cell crisis is characterized by sudden and severe pain due to the misshapen red blood cells blocking blood flow and causing tissue damage. While a sickle cell crisis can lead to anemia, the child experiencing the crisis would be more likely to describe pain and not specifically mention decreased hemoglobin.

Choice C rationale:

Infection is not a typical symptom experienced during a sickle cell crisis. While sickle cell disease can increase the risk of infections, the crisis itself primarily manifests as acute pain due to vaso-occlusion.

Choice D rationale:

Fatigue may be experienced by individuals with sickle cell disease, especially during or after a crisis, but it is not the most likely symptom they would describe during a sickle cell crisis. The hallmark symptom of a sickle cell crisis is severe pain.

The correct answer is C. Oriented to person only.

Choice A rationale:

A blood pressure of 144/84 mmHg is slightly elevated but not critically high. While it is important to monitor, it does not immediately impact the instructions for morning care.

Choice B rationale:

An oxygen saturation measurement of 95 to 96% is within the normal range and indicates adequate oxygenation. This is important to monitor but does not require specific changes to morning care instructions.

Choice C rationale:

Being oriented to person only indicates a significant alteration in the client’s cognitive status, which is crucial for the UAP to be aware of. This affects the client’s ability to understand and follow instructions, and may require additional supervision and safety measures during care.

Choice D rationale:

A urinary output of 50 mL/hour is within the normal range (typically 30-50 mL/hour is considered adequate). While it is important to monitor, it does not necessitate immediate changes to morning care instructions.

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