A nurse is caring for a client who has a white blood cell (WBC) count of 15,000/mm3. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Choice A reason: Promising not to tell anyone about the abuse is not a helpful statement, as it implies that the abuse is a secret that should be hidden. This may make the child feel ashamed, guilty, or isolated. The nurse has a duty to report the abuse to the proper authorities and to protect the child from further harm.

Choice B reason: Blaming the family for the abuse is not a helpful statement, as it may cause the child to feel conflicted, angry, or fearful. The child may still love the family member who abused them, or may depend on them for their basic needs. The nurse should avoid making judgments or accusations, and instead focus on the child's feelings and safety.

Choice C reason: Reassuring the child that the abuse is not their fault is a helpful statement, as it may help the child cope with the trauma and reduce the feelings of self-blame, guilt, or shame. The nurse should validate the child's emotions and let them know that they are not responsible for the abuse or for stopping it.

Choice D reason: Suggesting to discuss the abuse with the family is not a helpful statement, as it may put the child in danger or cause them more distress. The child may not feel comfortable or safe to talk about the abuse with the family member who abused them, or with other family members who may not believe them or support them. The nurse should respect the child's privacy and boundaries, and only involve the family with the child's consent and under professional guidance.

Choice A reason: Discouraging a high level of fluid intake is incorrect, as hydration is essential for preventing sickle cell crises and reducing blood viscosity. The nurse should encourage the child to drink at least 1.5 times the normal fluid requirement.

Choice B reason: Administering meperidine every 4 hr for pain is incorrect, as meperidine is not recommended for sickle cell pain due to the risk of neurotoxicity and seizures. The nurse should use other opioids such as morphine or hydromorphone for pain management.

Choice C reason: Applying cold compresses to painful, swollen joints is incorrect, as cold can cause vasoconstriction and worsen the sickling of red blood cells. The nurse should use warm compresses or heating pads to promote vasodilation and blood flow.

Choice D reason: Observing for indications of hypokalemia is correct, as sickle cell anemia can cause hemolysis and potassium loss. The nurse should monitor the child's serum potassium level and watch for signs of hypokalemia such as muscle weakness, cramps, arrhythmias, and constipation.