The nurse is caring for a client in sickle cell crisis. The plan of care for this client includes giving oxygen by nasal canula. What is the rationale behind this nursing action?
A) Someone in sickle cell crisis is in so much pain it is hard for them to breathe.
B) The sickled red blood cells have damaged oxyhemoglobin so adequate oxygen does not reach the cells.
C) When the red blood cells sickle, they lose their oxygen carrying ability so adequate oxygen does not reach the cells.
D) The body uses more oxygen when it is in pain, so it is hard for the person to breathe.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In sickle cell crisis, the sickled red blood cells have damaged oxyhemoglobin, making it difficult for adequate oxygen to reach the cells. Providing oxygen through a nasal cannula can help to increase the amount of oxygen in the blood, which can improve tissue perfusion and alleviate some of the symptoms of the crisis.

The Nurse Is Caring for a Client in Sickle Cell