A client with sickle cell anemia is experiencing a vaso-occlusive crisis. Which intervention should the nurse implement first?

A) This choice is incorrect because folate-deficiency anemia is associated with a deficiency of folic acid, often caused by poor dietary intake or malabsorption, but not specifically linked to alcoholism.

B) This choice is incorrect because hemolytic anemia is characterized by the destruction of red blood cells and is not directly related to alcoholism.

C) This choice is incorrect because sickle cell anemia is a genetic disorder and is not caused by alcohol consumption.

D) This choice is correct. Macrocytic anemia is commonly associated with alcoholism due to the direct toxic effects of alcohol on bone marrow, resulting in the production of larger-than-normal red blood cells (macrocytes).

A) This choice is incorrect because administering pain medication addresses the pain associated with the vaso-occlusive crisis, but the priority is to improve oxygenation first.

B) This choice is incorrect because warm compresses may provide comfort, but they do not directly address the underlying issue of vaso-occlusion and oxygen deficiency.

C) This choice is incorrect because although increasing fluid intake can help improve blood flow, it does not take precedence over addressing the oxygen deficiency.

D) This choice is correct because initiating oxygen therapy is the first priority in managing a vaso-occlusive crisis in a client with sickle cell anemia. It helps improve oxygenation and tissue perfusion, which are crucial during this crisis.

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