Question

The nurse is contributing to a parent education program about sickle cell anemia. Which of the following information should the nurse recommend including? A. Apply cold to painful areas B. Limit fluid intake C. Increase activity during exacerbations D. Avoid high altitudes

Short answer

Short Answer: Sickle cell anemia is a genetic disorder that leads to misshapen and fragile red blood cells, causing pain, anemia, and organ damage. To manage the condition, it's important to minimize triggers for pain crises or exacerbations. Cold temperatures, dehydration, and increased physical activity during a crisis can worsen the situation. High altitudes can also exacerbate the condition, as lower oxygen levels put additional stress on the body. Therefore, the best option for managing sickle cell anemia is to avoid high altitudes (Option D).

Step-by-step solution

Understanding sickle cell anemia

Sickle cell anemia is a genetic blood disorder that causes red blood cells to become misshapen and break down. This can lead to various complications, including pain, anemia, and organ damage. To manage sickle cell anemia, it's important to understand the factors that can trigger pain crises or exacerbations and provide appropriate care.

Evaluating Option A - Apply cold to painful areas

Applying cold to painful areas may seem like a reasonable option for managing pain in some conditions. However, for sickle cell anemia, cold temperatures can cause blood vessels to constrict, which may worsen the blood flow and the pain crises. Therefore, this option is not recommended.

Evaluating Option B - Limit fluid intake

Adequate hydration is crucial for people with sickle cell anemia, as dehydration can cause the blood to become more concentrated and viscous, potentially triggering a pain crisis. Therefore, it's important not to limit fluid intake but rather to ensure proper hydration.

Evaluating Option C - Increase activity during exacerbations

During a pain crisis or exacerbation, it's essential for people with sickle cell anemia to rest and minimize physical activity. Increasing activity during this time can worsen the situation by increasing the body's demand for oxygen, potentially stressing the already compromised red blood cells. This option is not recommended.

Evaluating Option D - Avoid high altitudes

High altitudes have lower oxygen levels, which can put additional stress on the body and potentially trigger a sickle cell crisis. Avoiding high altitudes can help minimize the risk of a crisis and is a recommended precaution for people with sickle cell anemia.

Choose the correct answer

Based on the evaluations of each option, the correct answer is: D. Avoid high altitudes