A nurse is caring for a patient with sickle cell disease (SCD)
The patient asks, "Why do my red blood cells become sickle-shaped?" Which response by the nurse is most accurate?

Choice A rationale:

A severe episode of pain in a client with sickle cell disease (SCD) is indicative of a sickle cell crisis.

Sickle cell crisis is a common complication of SCD, characterized by sudden, severe pain due to the formation of sickle-shaped red blood cells that obstruct blood flow in small blood vessels.

This vaso-occlusion leads to tissue ischemia and pain in various parts of the body.

It is a hallmark symptom of SCD and requires prompt management, typically with pain medications and hydration.

Choice B rationale:

Hemolysis event is not the correct choice in this context.

Hemolysis refers to the premature destruction of red blood cells, which can occur in SCD but does not directly correlate with the severe pain experienced during a sickle cell crisis.

Choice C rationale:

Jaundice episode is not the correct choice in this context either.

Jaundice, characterized by yellowing of the skin and eyes, can occur in individuals with SCD due to the breakdown of hemoglobin from ruptured red blood cells, but it does not specifically address the severe pain described in the question.

Choice D rationale:

Inflammatory reaction is not the correct choice for this scenario.

While inflammation can play a role in the pathophysiology of SCD, it does not directly describe the acute and severe pain experienced during a sickle cell crisis.

Choice A rationale:

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a genetic disorder caused by a mutation in the HBB gene, leading to the production of abnormal hemoglobin called hemoglobin S (HbS)

This abnormal hemoglobin causes red blood cells to become sickle-shaped when exposed to low oxygen levels, which is a hallmark of SCD.

The nurse's response accurately reflects the genetic basis of this condition.

Choice B rationale:

This choice is incorrect.

Sickle-shaped red blood cells in SCD are not the result of an autoimmune reaction.

Choice C rationale:

This choice is incorrect.

Sickle-shaped red blood cells are not caused by a viral infection.

Choice D rationale:

This choice is incorrect.

Diet and lifestyle choices do not contribute to the sickle shape of red blood cells in SCD.