A nurse is creating a plan of care for a child who has sickle cell anemia. Which of the following interventions should the nurse include in the plan?
Discourage a high level of fluid intake.
Administer meperidine every 4 hr for pain.
Apply cold compresses to painful, swollen joints.
Observe for indications of hypokalemia.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason: Discouraging a high level of fluid intake is incorrect, as hydration is essential for preventing sickle cell crises and reducing blood viscosity. The nurse should encourage the child to drink at least 1.5 times the normal fluid requirement.
Choice B reason: Administering meperidine every 4 hr for pain is incorrect, as meperidine is not recommended for sickle cell pain due to the risk of neurotoxicity and seizures. The nurse should use other opioids such as morphine or hydromorphone for pain management.
Choice C reason: Applying cold compresses to painful, swollen joints is incorrect, as cold can cause vasoconstriction and worsen the sickling of red blood cells. The nurse should use warm compresses or heating pads to promote vasodilation and blood flow.
Choice D reason: Observing for indications of hypokalemia is correct, as sickle cell anemia can cause hemolysis and potassium loss. The nurse should monitor the child's serum potassium level and watch for signs of hypokalemia such as muscle weakness, cramps, arrhythmias, and constipation.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Fifth disease is a viral infection that causes a rash on the face and body. It is also known as erythema infectiosum or slapped cheek syndrome. It is not the same as pertussis.
Choice B reason: Whooping cough is a bacterial infection that causes severe coughing spells that end with a whooping sound. It is also known as pertussis or the 100-day cough. It is the correct common name for the disease.
Choice C reason: Chickenpox is a viral infection that causes an itchy rash with blisters. It is also known as varicella. It is not the same as pertussis.
Choice D reason: Mumps is a viral infection that causes swelling of the salivary glands. It is also known as parotitis. It is not the same as pertussis.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: A respiratory rate of 24 breaths/min is within the normal range for a child, depending on their age. It does not indicate respiratory distress or asthma exacerbation.
Choice B reason: Wheezes in the lower lobes are a sign of airway obstruction and inflammation due to asthma. They indicate that the child may need additional medication or intervention to relieve their symptoms. The nurse should report this finding to the provider.
Choice C reason: An oxygen saturation of 95% is within the normal range for a child. It does not indicate hypoxia or impaired gas exchange due to asthma.
Choice D reason: A peak expiratory flow rate of 80% of personal best is considered a green zone result, meaning that the child's asthma is well controlled. It does not indicate a need for change in the child's asthma action plan.
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