The parents of a child hospitalized with sickle cell anemia tell the nurse that they are concerned about giving him morphine and it causing addiction. Which is appropriate for the nurse to explain about opioid analgesics?
Are given as a last resort because of the threat of addiction.
Are often ordered but not usually needed.
Rarely cause addiction because they are medically indicated.
Are used only if other measures, such as ice packs, are ineffective.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason:
Opioid analgesics are not given as a last resort solely because of the threat of addiction. While the risk of addiction is a concern, opioids are often necessary for managing severe pain, especially in conditions like sickle cell anemia. The American Society of Hematology guidelines emphasize the importance of effective pain management in sickle cell disease, which often includes the use of opioids. The goal is to manage pain effectively while monitoring for signs of misuse or addiction.
Choice B reason:
Opioid analgesics are often ordered and are usually needed for managing severe pain in patients with sickle cell anemia. Pain episodes in sickle cell disease can be extremely severe and debilitating, requiring potent analgesics like morphine for relief. The management of acute vaso-occlusive pain in sickle cell disease often necessitates the use of opioids to provide adequate pain control.
Choice C reason:
Opioid analgesics, when medically indicated and used under proper medical supervision, rarely cause addiction. The risk of addiction is significantly lower when opioids are used appropriately for pain management in a controlled medical setting. The Mayo Clinic highlights that while opioids have addictive properties, their medical use for pain relief, especially in acute settings, is generally safe when monitored by healthcare professionals.
Choice D reason:
Opioid analgesics are not used only if other measures, such as ice packs, are ineffective. While non-pharmacological measures can be part of pain management, opioids are often necessary for managing severe pain episodes in sickle cell disease. The use of opioids is based on the severity of the pain and the clinical judgment of the healthcare provider.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Releasing traction every hour to perform skin care: Releasing traction every hour is not recommended as it can disrupt the alignment and healing process of the fractured femur. Skin care is important, but it should be performed without compromising the traction setup.
Choice B Reason:
Releasing traction once every 8 hours to check circulation: While checking circulation is crucial, releasing traction every 8 hours is not necessary and can interfere with the therapeutic benefits of traction. Circulation can be monitored without releasing the traction.
Choice C Reason:
Maintaining continuous traction until 1 hour before the scheduled surgery: Continuous traction is essential to maintain the alignment of the fractured femur. However, there is no need to release traction 1 hour before surgery unless specifically instructed by the surgical team.
Choice D Reason:
Maintaining continuous traction and checking the position of traction: This is the most appropriate action. Continuous traction ensures proper alignment and healing of the fractured femur. Regularly checking the position of traction helps prevent complications and ensures the effectiveness of the treatment.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Monitor your child’s temperature daily: Monitoring temperature is important for children with sickle cell anemia as they are prone to infections. A fever can be an early sign of infection, which can be serious for these children. Normal body temperature for children ranges from 36.5°C to 38°C. However, while monitoring temperature is important, it is not the most critical daily advice compared to ensuring adequate hydration.
Choice B Reason:
Restrict outdoor play to 1 hour per day: Limiting outdoor play is not typically necessary unless the child is experiencing extreme fatigue or pain. Physical activity is generally encouraged to maintain overall health, but it should be balanced with rest and hydration. Therefore, this advice is not as crucial as ensuring the child stays hydrated.
Choice C Reason:
Apply cold compresses when your child expresses pain: Cold compresses are not recommended for managing pain in sickle cell anemia. Instead, warm compresses or heating pads are often suggested to help relieve pain by improving blood flow. Cold can cause vasoconstriction, which may worsen pain and complications.
Choice D Reason:
Offer your child fluids frequently to meet their daily fluid goals: Staying well-hydrated is essential for children with sickle cell anemia. Adequate hydration helps prevent sickle cell crises by reducing blood viscosity and promoting better blood flow. This is the most appropriate and critical advice for daily care.
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