The nurse is caring for a client with a sickle cell crisis. While caring for the client during the crisis, which of the following actions is priority?
A)Limit the client's intake of oral and IV fluids.
B)Evaluate the effectiveness of opioid analgesics.
C)Encourage the client to ambulate as much as tolerated.
D)Teach the client about high-protein, high-calorie foods.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Pain is the most common clinical manifestation of a crisis and usually requires large doses of continuous opioids for control. Fluid intake should be increased to reduce blood viscosity and improve perfusion. Rest is usually ordered to decrease metabolic requirements. Clients are instructed about the need for dietary folic acid, but high-protein, high-calorie diets are not emphasized.

The Nurse Is Caring for a Client with a Sickle