Which clinical manifestation should the nurse expect when a child with sickle cell anemia experiences an acute vasoocclusive crisis?
A) Circulatory collapse
B) Cardiomegaly, systolic murmurs
C) Hepatomegaly, intrahepatic cholestasis
D) Painful swelling of hands and feet; painful joints

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A vasoocclusive crisis is characterized by severe pain in the area of involvement. If in the extremities, painful swelling of the hands and feet is seen; if in the abdomen, severe pain resembles that of acute surgical abdomen; and if in the head, stroke and visual disturbances occur. Circulatory collapse results from sequestration crises. Cardiomegaly, systolic murmurs, hepatomegaly, and intrahepatic cholestasis result from chronic vasoocclusive phenomena.

Which Clinical Manifestation Should the Nurse Expect When a Child