A patient is to be discharged in a plaster spica cast. Which statement would indicate the need for further teaching with the patient's parent?

Choice A rationale:

Neck vein distention might be seen in conditions affecting venous return to the heart, such as heart failure, but it's not a specific symptom of closed head injury.

Choice B rationale:

Fixed, dilated pupils are a classic sign of increased intracranial pressure. The pressure can compress the cranial nerves, leading to changes in pupillary size and reactivity.

Choice C rationale:

Shortness of breath is more related to respiratory issues and might not be directly linked to a closed head injury.

Choice D rationale:

Glycosuria, the presence of glucose in the urine, is not a primary symptom of closed head injury. It could be related to diabetes or other metabolic conditions.

Choice A rationale:

While addressing the client's food preferences is important for their overall care, pain management takes priority during a vaso-occlusive sickle cell crisis to alleviate suffering and prevent complications.

Choice B rationale:

Assessing the client's knowledge about the illness is significant for education, but pain relief should precede this assessment to promptly address their distress.

Choice C rationale:

Obtaining a urine specimen is a relevant diagnostic step, but pain management should be initiated before further assessments or interventions.

Choice D rationale:

Administering pain relief medication is the immediate nursing priority. Sickle cell crises are excruciating, and timely pain management helps alleviate suffering and improve the client's well-being.