A nurse is planning care for a child who has osteomyelitis. Which of the following interventions should the nurse include in the plan of care?

Choice A Reason:

Plan for a 30-minute teaching session about the procedure: While providing information about the procedure is crucial, a 30-minute teaching session might exceed the child's attention span and may overwhelm them. Short, age-appropriate explanations are generally more effective in this age group.

Choice B Reason:

Demonstrate deep-breathing and counting exercises: Teaching relaxation techniques like deep-breathing and counting exercises can help the child manage anxiety and stress during the procedure. These techniques can be beneficial for calming the child and providing a sense of control.

Choice C Reason:

Use vague language to describe the procedure: Using vague or overly simplified language might lead to confusion or increase anxiety in the child. Providing accurate, developmentally appropriate information is important for the child's understanding and preparation.

Choice D Reason:

Explain the procedure to the child when they are in the playroom: Explaining the procedure to the child in a familiar and comfortable environment like the playroom can help reduce stress and create a more relaxed atmosphere for the discussion. However, timing is crucial; the explanation should be given when the child is calm and receptive, not necessarily only in the playroom.

Choice A Reason:

Have the child wear a surgical mask to school. Wearing a surgical mask to school is not a standard practice for managing sickle cell disease unless recommended during times of illness or in situations where the child is at risk of exposure to infections that could potentially trigger a sickle cell crisis.

Choice B Reason:

Limit fluids at bedtime. Adequate hydration is essential for individuals with sickle cell disease to prevent dehydration, which can trigger sickle cell crises. Limiting fluids at bedtime might not be advised; instead, encourage adequate hydration throughout the day.

Choice C Reason:

Apply cold compresses to painful areas. Cold compresses may provide temporary relief for some pain associated with sickle cell disease, but warm compresses or warm baths are generally more helpful in easing pain related to sickle cell crises.

Choice D Reason:

Encourage physical activity as tolerated. Regular physical activity, as tolerated by the child, is beneficial in managing sickle cell disease. It helps improve blood flow, reduce the risk of complications, and maintain overall health. However, it's crucial to encourage activity while considering the child's individual limitations and avoiding excessive strain or exhaustion.