A nurse is caring for an adolescent who is having a sickle cell crisis. Which of the following nursing actions should the nurse take?
withhold opioids to avoid dependence
Assist RN with administering a blood transfusion
Initiate a 2 L/day fluid restriction
Encourage exercise
The Correct Answer is B
A. Withhold opioids to avoid dependence.
This option is incorrect. Opioid analgesics are commonly used to manage the severe pain associated with sickle cell crisis. Withholding opioids during a crisis could lead to inadequate pain relief and compromise the adolescent's comfort and recovery. It's important to appropriately administer opioids as prescribed to alleviate pain and suffering.
B. Assist RN with administering a blood transfusion.
This option may be appropriate depending on the severity and indications of the sickle cell crisis. Blood transfusions are sometimes used to treat sickle cell crises, particularly in cases of severe anemia or acute complications such as acute chest syndrome. However, the decision to administer a blood transfusion should be made by the healthcare provider based on the individual patient's clinical status and needs. The nurse's role would include assisting the registered nurse (RN) with the administration of the transfusion and monitoring the adolescent for any adverse reactions.
C. Initiate a 2 L/day fluid restriction.
This option is incorrect. During a sickle cell crisis, it is important to maintain adequate hydration to help prevent dehydration and reduce the viscosity of blood, which can help prevent sickling of red blood cells. Fluid intake should be encouraged, and there is typically no need for fluid restriction unless there are specific medical reasons to do so.
D. Encourage exercise.
This option is incorrect. During a sickle cell crisis, the adolescent is likely experiencing significant pain and discomfort, which may limit their ability to engage in physical activity. Encouraging exercise during a crisis could exacerbate pain and potentially lead to complications. Rest and minimizing physical exertion are typically recommended during a sickle cell crisis to promote comfort and conserve energy.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. A room with a toddler who has pneumonia.
This option is not ideal because both RSV and pneumonia are respiratory infections that can spread to other patients. Placing these two patients together could increase the risk of cross-infection.
B. A private room with reverse isolation.
Reverse isolation is typically used to protect immunocompromised patients from acquiring infections from others. However, in the case of RSV, reverse isolation is not necessary because RSV primarily affects infants and young children who are generally not immunocompromised. Therefore, this option is not appropriate for an infant with RSV.
C. A private room with contact/droplet precautions.
This option is the most appropriate. RSV is primarily spread through respiratory droplets and direct contact with respiratory secretions. Placing the infant in a private room with contact/droplet precautions helps to minimize the risk of transmission to other patients. Healthcare workers and visitors entering the room should adhere to appropriate precautions, including wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) such as masks, gloves, and gowns.
D. A room with an infant who has croup.
Placing an infant with RSV in the same room as an infant with croup is not ideal because both conditions involve respiratory symptoms and may increase the risk of cross-infection.

Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Applying suction for 20 seconds:
Suctioning for 20 seconds is within the recommended duration for endotracheal suctioning in children. It allows adequate time for removing secretions without causing excessive trauma to the airway.
B. Introducing the catheter without suction:
This action is incorrect. When performing endotracheal suctioning, the catheter should be introduced into the endotracheal tube while applying suction. Introducing the catheter without suction may not effectively remove secretions and can lead to ineffective suctioning.
C. Rotating the catheter between the thumb and forefinger while suctioning:
Rotating the catheter between the thumb and forefinger while suctioning helps to prevent the catheter from sticking to the airway walls and facilitates the removal of secretions. This action is appropriate and helps ensure effective suctioning.
D. Allowing the child to rest for 30 to 60 seconds between suctioning passes:
Allowing the child to rest between suctioning passes helps minimize hypoxia and discomfort during the procedure. This action is appropriate and ensures that the child has adequate time to recover before the next suctioning pass.
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