A nurse is caring for a 10-year-old child who is receiving chemotherapy. The child’s guardian asks about managing adverse effects.
Which of the following statements should the nurse make?

Choice A rationale: Applying cold compresses to the affected joints is not recommended for vaso-occlusive crises in sickle cell disease. Cold can cause vasoconstriction, which may worsen the pain and decrease blood flow to the affected areas. Warm compresses are preferred to promote vasodilation and improve blood flow.

Choice B rationale: Administering meperidine IV for pain is not recommended due to the risk of neurotoxicity and the potential for seizures with repeated use. Other opioids, such as morphine or hydromorphone, are preferred for managing severe pain in vaso-occlusive crises.

Choice C rationale: Administering folic acid as prescribed is important for clients with sickle cell disease. Folic acid helps in the production of new red blood cells, which is crucial for individuals with sickle cell disease who experience chronic hemolysis and anemia.

Choice D rationale: Restricting oral intake is not necessary for a client with a vaso-occlusive crisis unless there are specific medical indications. Adequate hydration is essential to help reduce the viscosity of the blood and prevent further sickling of red blood cells.

Choice E rationale: Giving oral hydroxyurea is important for managing sickle cell disease. Hydroxyurea helps to increase the production of fetal hemoglobin, which reduces the frequency and severity of vaso-occlusive crises. It is a key medication in the long-term management of sickle cell disease.

Choice F rationale: Monitoring oxygen saturation continuously is important to ensure that the client is receiving adequate oxygenation. Hypoxia can exacerbate sickling of red blood cells and worsen the vaso-occlusive crisis. Continuous monitoring allows for prompt intervention if oxygen levels drop.

Choice G rationale: Placing the client on strict bed rest is important to reduce metabolic demands and prevent further pain and complications. Rest helps to conserve energy and reduce the risk of additional stress on the body during a vaso- occlusive crisis.

Choice H rationale: Instructing the parent to ensure the pneumococcal vaccine is current is important for preventing infections. Clients with sickle cell disease are at increased risk for infections, particularly with encapsulated bacteria like Streptococcus pneumoniae. Keeping vaccinations up to date is crucial for reducing the risk of serious infections.

The correct answer is Choice C.

Choice A rationale

Abstinence from sexual activity is the only certain way to prevent STIs. Abstinence means not having vaginal, anal, or oral sex, which eliminates the risk of transmission of STIs. Therefore, the statement that abstinence does not prevent STIs is incorrect.

Choice B rationale

Adolescents are at a higher risk of contracting STIs compared to other age groups. This is due to factors such as higher rates of unprotected sex, multiple sexual partners, and biological susceptibility.

Choice C rationale

Prompt treatment of STIs can prevent complications such as pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility, and chronic pain. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial in managing and preventing the spread of STIs.

Choice D rationale

Having one sexual partner does not eliminate the risk of contracting STIs. If the partner is infected or has had previous sexual partners who were infected, there is still a risk of transmission.