Question

A 25 -year-old female client with sickle cell disease has been prescribed the drug hydroxurea (Droxia). Which statement by the client indicates a need for clarification by the nurse? A. "This drug works by getting me more fetal hemoglobin." B. "I will have to obtain regular laboratory test to check my blood levels." C. "I am thinking about getting pregnant within the next three months." D. "I should notify the doctor if I have any signs of infection or abnormal bleeding."

Short answer

Answer: C. "I am thinking about getting pregnant within the next three months."

Step-by-step solution

Understand the context

First, we need to know about sickle cell disease and hydroxyurea. Sickle cell disease is a genetic disorder that affects red blood cells and causes them to have an abnormal sickle shape, leading to various health problems. Hydroxyurea is a drug used to treat sickle cell disease by increasing the production of fetal hemoglobin, which reduces the occurrence of sickle cells.

Analyze each statement

Next, examine each statement made by the client to determine if it is accurate or not. A. "This drug works by getting me more fetal hemoglobin." - This statement is accurate, as hydroxyurea increases the production of fetal hemoglobin, reducing the occurrence of sickle cells. B. "I will have to obtain regular laboratory test to check my blood levels." - This statement is also accurate, as patients taking hydroxyurea need to have regular blood tests to monitor the effectiveness of the drug, as well as to detect any potential side effects. C. "I am thinking about getting pregnant within the next three months." - This statement requires clarification, as hydroxyurea can be harmful to a developing fetus. Patients should discuss the risks and benefits of taking hydroxyurea during pregnancy with their healthcare provider, and alternative options should be considered. D. "I should notify the doctor if I have any signs of infection or abnormal bleeding." - This statement is accurate, as hydroxyurea can cause a decreased ability to fight infections and increased bleeding risks in some patients. Patients should report any signs of infection or abnormal bleeding to their healthcare provider.

Choose the correct statement

Based on the analysis, the statement that indicates a need for clarification by the nurse is: C. "I am thinking about getting pregnant within the next three months."