A school-aged child is admitted to the hospital with a vaso-occlusive sickle cell crisis. Which measure in the child’s care plan should be given priority?
Encouraging the child to take deep breaths hourly.
Maintaining fluids through an intravenous line.
Beginning active range-of-motion exercises.
Seeing that the child ingests a protein-rich diet.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale
Encouraging deep breaths hourly can help prevent atelectasis and improve oxygenation, but it is not the priority in managing a vaso-occlusive crisis. The primary issue in a vaso-occlusive crisis is the blockage of blood flow due to sickled cells, leading to pain and potential organ damage. While deep breathing exercises are beneficial, they do not directly address the underlying cause of the crisis.
Choice B rationale
Maintaining fluids through an intravenous line is crucial in managing a vaso-occlusive crisis. Hydration helps to reduce blood viscosity, which can prevent further sickling of red blood cells and improve blood flow. Adequate hydration is essential to minimize the risk of complications such as stroke, acute chest syndrome, and organ damage. Therefore, maintaining IV fluids is a priority intervention in this scenario.
Choice C rationale
Beginning active range-of-motion exercises can help prevent joint stiffness and maintain mobility, but it is not the priority during an acute vaso-occlusive crisis. The primary focus should be on managing pain, ensuring adequate hydration, and preventing complications. Once the acute phase is managed, physical therapy and exercises can be introduced to support long- term health and mobility.
Choice D rationale
Seeing that the child ingests a protein-rich diet is important for overall health and growth, especially in children with chronic conditions like sickle cell anemia. However, during an acute vaso-occlusive crisis, the immediate priority is to manage pain, ensure hydration, and prevent complications. Nutritional support can be addressed once the acute crisis is under control.
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Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Varying the child’s schedule each day can create a sense of unpredictability and insecurity. According to Erikson’s theory of psychosocial development, children in this age group (10 years old) are in the stage of industry versus inferiority. They need a sense of routine and structure to develop a sense of competence and accomplishment. A consistent schedule helps them feel secure and focused on their tasks.
Choice B rationale
Providing a daily session with a play therapist can be beneficial for the child’s emotional well- being. However, it does not directly address the child’s need for a sense of competence and accomplishment. According to Erikson’s theory, children in this age group need to develop a sense of industry by mastering tasks and completing school work.
Choice C rationale
Encouraging the client to complete school work helps promote a sense of industry and competence. According to Erikson’s theory, children in this age group need to develop a sense of accomplishment through mastering tasks. Completing school work provides them with a sense of purpose and achievement, which is essential for their psychosocial development.
Choice D rationale
Discouraging visits from the client’s friends can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness. According to Erikson’s theory, social interactions and relationships are important for the child’s psychosocial development. Encouraging visits from friends can help the child feel connected and supported during their hospitalization.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Tugging on the affected ear lobe is a common sign of otitis media in children. This behavior is often observed because the child is experiencing discomfort or pain in the ear, and tugging or pulling on the ear lobe is a way to express or alleviate that discomfort.
Choice B rationale
Erythema and edema of the affected ear are not typical findings in otitis media. These symptoms are more commonly associated with external ear infections, such as otitis externa.
Choice C rationale
Pain when manipulating the affected ear lobe is more indicative of otitis externa rather than otitis media. Otitis media involves the middle ear, and manipulation of the ear lobe does not typically cause pain.
Choice D rationale
Clear drainage from the affected ear is not a typical finding in otitis media. If there is drainage, it is usually purulent (pus-like) and indicates a more severe infection or a ruptured eardrum.