An 11-year-old patient with sickle cell anemia is admitted to the hospital with vaso-occlusive crisis. He is experiencing pain in his left elbow. The nurse needs to monitor the patient for which symptom?

Choice A rationale:

While maintaining a moist oral mucosa is important, preventing infection takes precedence, as infections can lead to serious complications and compromise overall health.

Choice B rationale:

Increasing physical mobility is a valid goal, but infection prevention is more critical, especially when starting prednisone therapy, which can weaken the immune response.

Choice C rationale:

The priority lies in keeping the patient free of infection. Prednisone can suppress the immune system, making the patient more susceptible to infections that can have severe consequences.

Choice D rationale:

Ingesting a moderate potassium diet is important, but the prevention of infection takes precedence due to the potential for serious health risks associated with compromised immunity.

"I will take the enzymes with all my meals and snacks.”.

Choice A rationale:

Taking pancreatic enzymes with all meals and snacks is the correct approach. Pancreatic enzymes are essential for aiding digestion and should be taken whenever food is consumed to ensure proper nutrient absorption.

Choice B rationale:

Taking enzymes only with meals is insufficient. Snacks also require enzyme supplementation for effective digestion.

Choice C rationale:

Waiting for complications before taking enzymes is incorrect. Enzymes are necessary for every meal and snack to prevent malabsorption and digestive issues.

Choice D rationale:

Taking enzymes at night before bed is not recommended. Enzymes are needed when food is present in the stomach, which typically occurs during meals and snacks, not before bedtime.