The nurse is discussing genetically linked diseases with a couple planning a pregnancy. The female states, "I am concerned because there is a history of sickle-cell disease in my family." Which information from the nurse is correct?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Sickle-cell disease is an autosomal recessive disorder, meaning that both parents need to be carriers of the sickle-cell trait for the child to have the disease. Therefore, the male partner should undergo genetic testing to determine if he is a carrier. If he is not a carrier, then the risk of their child having sickle-cell disease is low. If he is a carrier, then the couple can undergo genetic counseling to discuss their options, which may include prenatal testing. The other options given are incorrect, as not all offspring will have the disease (only if both parents are carriers), the gender of the child does not determine whether they will have the disease, and it is not necessary for the couple to avoid pregnancy altogether, but rather undergo genetic testing and counseling.

The Nurse Is Discussing Genetically Linked Diseases with a Couple