A couple who both carry the sickle cell trait have brought their 6-month-old daughter in for screening.Which of the following statements by the nurse is best?
A)"We generally don't test for things unless there is a symptom; has the child had bloody stools?"
B)"The baby will need to stay in the hospital overnight since a series of tests should be done."
C)"I'm sure you must be anxious about this.Is there anything I can do for you right now?"
D)"Sickle cell testing is not accurate until the baby is over 1 year old."

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The nurse should acknowledge the parents' anxiety and offer support. Sickle cell trait is a genetic condition and there is a 25% chance of their child inheriting two copies of the gene, resulting in sickle cell disease. The nurse can provide information about screening and management options, but should also offer emotional support to the parents. Option A is incorrect as sickle cell trait does not typically cause symptoms. Option B is incorrect as there is no need for the baby to stay in the hospital overnight for screening. Option D is incorrect as sickle cell testing can be done at any age, but DNA testing may not be accurate until the child is a few months old.

A Couple Who Both Carry the Sickle Cell Trait Have