How can the nurse determine that the outcomes of nursing interventions have been successful for the client diagnosed with a sickle cell crisis? (SELECT ALL THAT APPLY)
The client is free of chest pain and dyspnea.
The client describes the importance of increasing fluid intake.
The client increases aerobic exercises to promote endurance.
The client's acute pain is controlled at 3 on a standard pain scale.
Correct Answer : A,B,D
Choice A reason:
Being free of chest pain and dyspnea is a significant indicator of successful nursing intervention in a sickle cell crisis. Chest pain and dyspnea can occur due to acute chest syndrome, a life-threatening complication of sickle cell disease characterized by vaso-occlusion in the pulmonary microcirculation. Effective pain management and oxygen therapy can alleviate these symptoms, reflecting improved respiratory function and gas exchange.
Choice B reason:
Educating the client on the importance of increasing fluid intake is crucial in managing sickle cell crisis. Adequate hydration helps to reduce blood viscosity and prevent sickling of red blood cells, which can lead to vaso-occlusive episodes. When a client verbalizes understanding and the importance of hydration, it demonstrates the effectiveness of patient education and the client's engagement in self-care.
Choice C reason:
While increasing aerobic exercises may promote endurance, it is not typically a short-term outcome measure for a sickle cell crisis. Exercise must be approached with caution in these clients, as it can increase the risk of a vaso-occlusive crisis due to dehydration and increased oxygen demand during a sickle cell crisis.
Choice D reason:
Control of acute pain to a level of 3 on a standard pain scale indicates successful pain management, a primary goal in the treatment of sickle cell crisis. Pain in sickle cell crisis is due to ischemia from obstructed blood flow by sickled cells. Effective analgesic administration and pain management strategies are essential to achieve this outcome.
Choice E reason:
A leukocyte count of 18,000/mm³ is above the normal range (4,500 to 11,000/mm³) and may indicate an infection or inflammation, which are common complications of sickle cell disease. However, this is not a direct outcome of nursing interventions aimed at managing a sickle cell crisis and thus is not a correct choice.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A Reason
Using an antiemetic one hour after administration of methotrexate is not a standard recommendation. Antiemetics are typically used to prevent nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy and are taken before or at the time of methotrexate administration, not afterward.
Choice B Reason
Drinking 2-3 liters of water per day is important for patients taking methotrexate to prevent kidney damage by ensuring adequate hydration and facilitating the excretion of the drug¹. Methotrexate can be nephrotoxic, and proper hydration helps to mitigate this risk.
Choice C Reason
Rinsing the mouth with an alcohol-based mouthwash is not recommended for patients taking methotrexate. Alcohol can cause drying and irritation, which might exacerbate any mouth sores caused by methotrexate. Instead, patients should use a gentle, non-alcoholic mouthwash to maintain oral hygiene.
Choice D Reason
Taking methotrexate with an NSAID is not advised without specific medical guidance. NSAIDs can increase the toxicity of methotrexate by displacing it from protein-binding sites and reducing its renal clearance, potentially leading to increased side effects.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Maintaining normal salt and fluid intake is crucial for patients on lithium. Lithium can affect sodium levels in the body, and consistent sodium intake helps to keep lithium levels stable. Patients should be advised to drink adequate fluids to prevent dehydration but avoid excessive fluid intake, which could alter lithium levels and potentially lead to toxicity¹²³⁴.
Choice B Reason:
Drinking twice the usual amount of fluids daily is not recommended for patients on lithium unless directed by a healthcare provider. Excessive fluid intake can lead to changes in lithium levels and increase the risk of lithium toxicity. Patients should aim to consume a sufficient amount of fluids to stay hydrated, especially in situations that may lead to dehydration, such as during hot weather or illness.
Choice C Reason:
Avoiding aged cheese, processed meats, and red wine is generally advised for patients taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), not lithium. These foods can contain high levels of tyramine, which can interact with MAOIs. However, there are no specific dietary restrictions for lithium regarding these foods. Patients should follow a balanced diet and consult with their healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.
Choice D Reason:
Doubling the lithium dose if diarrhea or vomiting occurs is incorrect and potentially dangerous. If a patient experiences diarrhea or vomiting, it can affect lithium absorption and increase the risk of toxicity. Instead, patients should contact their healthcare provider for guidance. Adjustments to the medication regimen should only be made under medical supervision.
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