When caring for a child with sickle cell disease, the practical nurse (PN) expects that the child will most likely describe which symptom when experiencing a sickle cell crisis?
Decreased hemoglobin.
Joint pain.
Infection.
Fatigue.
The Correct Answer is B
Correct Answer: B. Joint pain.
Choice B rationale:
Joint pain is the most common symptom experienced by individuals during a sickle cell crisis. The misshapen red blood cells can block blood flow to joints, leading to severe pain and inflammation. Joint pain is a hallmark sign of a sickle cell crisis, and managing pain is a critical aspect of caring for these patients.
Choice A rationale:
Decreased hemoglobin is not the expected symptom during a sickle cell crisis. A sickle cell crisis is characterized by sudden and severe pain due to the misshapen red blood cells blocking blood flow and causing tissue damage. While a sickle cell crisis can lead to anemia, the child experiencing the crisis would be more likely to describe pain and not specifically mention decreased hemoglobin.
Choice C rationale:
Infection is not a typical symptom experienced during a sickle cell crisis. While sickle cell disease can increase the risk of infections, the crisis itself primarily manifests as acute pain due to vaso-occlusion.
Choice D rationale:
Fatigue may be experienced by individuals with sickle cell disease, especially during or after a crisis, but it is not the most likely symptom they would describe during a sickle cell crisis. The hallmark symptom of a sickle cell crisis is severe pain.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The correct answer is choice C. Consult with the client about the reasons for his refusal to be weighed.
Choice A rationale:
Including "Noncompliance”. as a priority problem in the client's plan of care assumes the client's refusal to be weighed is intentional and willfully disobedient. This may not be the case, and labeling the client as noncompliant could create a negative atmosphere, hindering effective communication and care.
Choice B rationale:
Advising the UAP to re-attempt the daily weight after the client eats breakfast does not address the underlying reason for the client's refusal. Additionally, there is no evidence suggesting that weighing the client after breakfast will improve the situation.
Choice C rationale:
Consulting with the client about the reasons for his refusal to be weighed is the most appropriate action. Open communication with the client can help identify any concerns or fears related to the weighing process. By understanding the client's perspective, the healthcare team can work together to find a solution that ensures the client's cooperation with the weight monitoring.
Choice D rationale:
Calculating the client's weight based on the 24-hour fluid intake and output is not a reliable method for obtaining an accurate weight measurement. Fluid volume overload can lead to fluid retention and may not accurately reflect the client's true weight.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The correct answer is choice B, Serum creatinine. Choice A rationale:
The white blood cell count (WBC) is an important parameter for assessing the body's immune response to infections. While it can provide valuable information about the presence of an infection, it is not directly related to nephrotoxicity. Therefore, it is not the most important laboratory value to review before administering an antibiotic that can cause nephrotoxicity.
Choice B rationale:

Serum creatinine is a crucial laboratory value to assess kidney function. It is a waste product that is filtered by the kidneys, and its level in the blood is a reliable indicator of kidney function. If the serum creatinine level is elevated, it suggests impaired kidney function, which can be a warning sign of nephrotoxicity. Reviewing the serum creatinine level before administering nephrotoxic antibiotics is essential to ensure that the client's kidneys are functioning adequately and to avoid potential harm.
Choice C rationale:
Hemoglobin and hematocrit are indicators of the client's red blood cell count and blood's oxygen-carrying capacity. While these values can provide information about the client's overall health status, they are not directly related to nephrotoxicity. Therefore, they are not the most important laboratory values to review in this particular scenario.
Choice D rationale:
Serum calcium levels are essential for assessing bone health, nerve function, and muscle contractions. However, they are not directly related to nephrotoxicity, and reviewing serum calcium levels alone would not provide sufficient information about kidney function. Hence, it is not the most critical value to review before administering nephrotoxic antibiotics
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
