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

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

Step-by-step solution

Understanding Hydroxurea for Sickle Cell Disease

Hydroxurea (Droxia) is a medication used to treat sickle cell disease. It works by increasing the production of fetal hemoglobin, which reduces the occurrence of sickling in red blood cells. It is important for patients to have regular blood tests to monitor the effects of the medication. Hydroxurea is not recommended during pregnancy, as it can cause harm to the fetus. Patients should also notify their healthcare provider if they experience signs of infection or abnormal bleeding, as this can be a side effect of the drug.

Evaluating Statement A

"This drug works by getting me more fetal hemoglobin." This statement is accurate, as hydroxurea increases fetal hemoglobin levels in patients with sickle cell disease. Therefore, this does not require clarification by the nurse.

Evaluating Statement B

"I will have to obtain regular laboratory test to check my blood levels." This statement is also accurate, as patients taking hydroxurea need regular blood tests to monitor the drug's effects and potential side effects. Again, this does not require clarification by the nurse.

Evaluating Statement C

"I am thinking about getting pregnant within the next three months." This statement does require clarification by the nurse, as hydroxurea is not recommended during pregnancy due to potential harm to the fetus. The nurse should talk to the client about the risks associated with hydroxurea during pregnancy and discuss alternative treatment options or the necessity of stopping the medication before attempting to become pregnant.

Evaluating Statement D

"I should notify the doctor if I have any signs of infection or abnormal bleeding." This statement is accurate, as patients should report any signs of infection or abnormal bleeding to their healthcare provider. These symptoms could be related to the side effects of hydroxurea and may require medical attention. So, this statement does not require clarification by the nurse. In conclusion, the correct answer is statement C. The client's mention of thinking about getting pregnant within the next three months indicates a need for clarification by the nurse regarding the use of hydroxurea during pregnancy. The nurse should discuss the potential risks and alternative treatment options with the client.