A nurse is discharging a child who has sickle cell anemia after an acute crisis episode. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include in the teaching?
"Offer fluids to your child multiple times every day.
"Restrict outdoor play activity to 1 hour per day.
"Monitor your child's temperature daily."
"Apply cold compresses when your child expresses pain
The Correct Answer is A
Children with sickle cell anemia are prone to dehydration, which can worsen the sickling of red blood cells and trigger a sickle cell crisis. Therefore, it is essential to maintain good hydration to prevent crises. Offering fluids to the child multiple times every day helps to keep them well-hydrated.
Option B is not necessary unless there is a specific medical reason to restrict outdoor play. Regular play is essential for a child's physical and emotional development.
Option C is important, but it is not specific to discharge teaching after an acute crisis episode. Monitoring the child's temperature daily is essential to detect early signs of infection, which can be a trigger for sickle cell crises.
Option D is not recommended because applying cold compresses can cause vasoconstriction and may worsen pain in children with sickle cell anemia. Heat therapy, warm compresses, or a warm bath are more appropriate for pain relief during a sickle cell crisis. However, pain management should be discussed with the healthcare provider to ensure the most appropriate approach for the individual child's needs.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Apex of the heart:The apex of the heart is the preferred site for measuring an infant's heart rate. It is located at the 4th or 5th intercostal space, just medial to the midclavicular line, allowing for accurate auscultation of the heartbeat.
B. Carotid artery:While the carotid artery can be used to assess heart rate in older children and adults, it is not ideal for infants due to the risk of compromising circulation to the brain if pressure is applied too forcefully.
C. Brachial artery:The brachial artery is often used to assess pulse in infants, especially in cases of CPR, but it is not the preferred site for routine heart rate measurement. It may be used when assessing circulation or checking for pulses, but auscultation at the apex is more accurate for heart rate.
D. Radial artery:The radial artery can be difficult to palpate in infants due to their small size and is generally not used for heart rate assessment in this age group. The apex is a more reliable location.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The nurse should clarify the prescription to administer sodium biphosphate/sodium phosphate because it is a laxative and is contraindicated in a child with suspected appendicitis. The use of laxatives or enemas can potentially worsen the condition by increasing the risk of perforation or rupture of the inflamed appendix.
A. Monitoring oral temperature every 4 hours is important to assess for signs of infection or worsening condition.
C. Maintaining NPO status is essential to avoid stimulating the digestive system and to prepare for possible surgery.
D. Medicating the client for pain every 4 hours as needed is appropriate to manage pain and provide comfort while the child awaits further evaluation or treatment.
Remember, it's crucial to avoid the use of laxatives, enemas, or any other interventions that can potentially aggravate the inflamed appendix in a child with suspected appendicitis.
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