A neonate is born with bilateral mild talipes equinovarus (clubfoot). When the parents ask the nurse how this will be corrected, the nurse should give which explanation?

Choice A reason:

Basketball, while a popular sport, involves a significant amount of physical contact and the risk of falls and injuries1. For children with hemophilia, engaging in contact sports can increase the risk of bleeding episodes and joint damage. Therefore, basketball is not the most recommended sport for children with hemophilia.

Choice B reason:

Swimming is highly recommended for children with hemophilia because it is a low-impact sport that provides excellent cardiovascular exercise without putting undue stress on the joints. The buoyancy of the water supports the body, reducing the risk of injuries and bleeding episodes. Swimming also helps improve muscle strength and flexibility, which can be beneficial for overall health and well-being.

Choice C reason:

Soccer, like basketball, involves a lot of running, physical contact, and the potential for falls and injuries. These factors make soccer a less suitable sport for children with hemophilia, as it can increase the risk of bleeding and joint damage. Therefore, soccer is not the most recommended sport for children with hemophilia.

Choice D reason:

Skating, whether roller skating or ice skating, carries a risk of falls and injuries. While it can be a fun and enjoyable activity, the potential for accidents makes it less suitable for children with hemophilia. The risk of bleeding episodes and joint damage is higher with activities that involve a significant risk of falls.

Choice A reason:

Opioid analgesics are not given as a last resort solely because of the threat of addiction. While the risk of addiction is a concern, opioids are often necessary for managing severe pain, especially in conditions like sickle cell anemia. The American Society of Hematology guidelines emphasize the importance of effective pain management in sickle cell disease, which often includes the use of opioids. The goal is to manage pain effectively while monitoring for signs of misuse or addiction.

Choice B reason:

Opioid analgesics are often ordered and are usually needed for managing severe pain in patients with sickle cell anemia. Pain episodes in sickle cell disease can be extremely severe and debilitating, requiring potent analgesics like morphine for relief. The management of acute vaso-occlusive pain in sickle cell disease often necessitates the use of opioids to provide adequate pain control.

Choice C reason:

Opioid analgesics, when medically indicated and used under proper medical supervision, rarely cause addiction. The risk of addiction is significantly lower when opioids are used appropriately for pain management in a controlled medical setting. The Mayo Clinic highlights that while opioids have addictive properties, their medical use for pain relief, especially in acute settings, is generally safe when monitored by healthcare professionals.

Choice D reason:

Opioid analgesics are not used only if other measures, such as ice packs, are ineffective. While non-pharmacological measures can be part of pain management, opioids are often necessary for managing severe pain episodes in sickle cell disease. The use of opioids is based on the severity of the pain and the clinical judgment of the healthcare provider.