Priority nursing interventions

Case Study: Roslyn, a six-year-old, is attending public school for the first time. Her parents brought her to the clinic and stated, “she appears to have pain in her legs and won’t participate in playtime.” The parents noticed recently Roslyn appears pale and acts weak. Roslyn is diagnosed with sickle cell anemia. After her parents and siblings undergo genetic testing, it is found that Roslyn is the only family member with the disease.

What are the priority nursing interventions for Roslyn?
What anticipatory guidance should the nurse provide Roslyn and her family regarding the diagnosis of sickle cell anemia and her attending school?
How can the nurse support the child and family?
What discharge instructions should the nurse provide to Roslyn and her parents?
What, if any, activity restrictions will Roslyn have after discharge?

Full Answer Section

    Priority nursing interventions for Roslyn include:
  • Monitoring vital signs: Vital signs, such as temperature, blood pressure, and heart rate, should be monitored closely to detect early signs of infection or other complications.
  • Pain management: Pain is a common symptom of sickle cell anemia. Roslyn should be given pain medication as needed to keep her comfortable.
  • Hydration: Fluids are important for helping to prevent sickle cell pain crises. Roslyn should be encouraged to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day.
  • Oxygen therapy: Oxygen therapy may be needed if Roslyn's oxygen levels are low.
  • Infection prevention: Sickle cell anemia patients are more susceptible to infections. Roslyn should be vaccinated against common childhood diseases and should practice good hand hygiene.
Anticipatory Guidance for Roslyn and Her Family The nurse should provide Roslyn and her family with anticipatory guidance about sickle cell anemia. This includes information about the disease, its symptoms, and how to manage it. The nurse should also provide information about the importance of regular checkups and vaccinations. Here are some specific anticipatory guidance tips for Roslyn and her family:
  • Educate Roslyn about her disease: Roslyn should be given age-appropriate information about sickle cell anemia. This will help her to understand her disease and how to manage it.
  • Help Roslyn develop a coping mechanism: Roslyn may experience pain and fatigue due to her sickle cell anemia. The nurse should help her to develop coping mechanisms for dealing with these symptoms.
  • Encourage Roslyn to stay active: Exercise is important for people with sickle cell anemia. Roslyn should be encouraged to participate in regular physical activity.
  • Provide support to the family: The nurse should provide support to Roslyn's family. This may include providing information about support groups and resources.
Supporting the Child and Family The nurse can play a supportive role for Roslyn and her family by providing education, emotional support, and advocacy. Here are some specific ways the nurse can support Roslyn and her family:
  • Educate Roslyn and her family about sickle cell anemia: The nurse can provide Roslyn and her family with information about sickle cell anemia, including its symptoms, causes, and treatment options.
  • Provide emotional support to Roslyn and her family: The nurse can provide emotional support to Roslyn and her family by listening to their concerns and offering words of encouragement.
  • Advocate for Roslyn and her family: The nurse can advocate for Roslyn and her family by helping them to access resources and services.
Discharge Instructions for Roslyn and Her Parents Upon discharge, the nurse should provide Roslyn and her parents with written discharge instructions. These instructions should include information about Roslyn's medications, how to manage her symptoms, and when to seek medical attention. Here are some specific discharge instructions for Roslyn and her parents:
  • Medications: Roslyn should be given a list of her medications, including the dosage and frequency. Her parents should also be instructed on how to give her medications.
  • Symptom management: Roslyn's parents should be instructed on how to manage her symptoms, such as pain and fatigue.
  • When to seek medical attention: Roslyn's parents should be instructed on when to seek medical attention, such as if she has a fever, severe pain, or difficulty breathing.
Activity Restrictions After Discharge Roslyn may have some activity restrictions after discharge. These restrictions will depend on her individual condition. The nurse will discuss any activity restrictions with Roslyn and her parents before discharge. Here are some common activity restrictions for children with sickle cell anemia:
  • Avoiding strenuous activity: Strenuous activity can trigger sickle cell pain crises. Roslyn should be encouraged to avoid strenuous activity, such as running, jumping, and playing sports.
  • Avoiding dehydration: Dehydration can also trigger sickle cell pain crises. Roslyn should be encouraged to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day.
  • Avoiding extreme temperatures: Extreme temperatures can also trigger sickle cell pain crises. Roslyn should avoid exposure to extreme heat and cold.
Conclusion Sickle cell anemia is a serious but manageable condition. With proper care and education, children with sickle cell anemia can live long and healthy lives. The nurse plays a vital role in providing care and support to children with sickle cell anemia and their families.  

Sample Answer

   

Priority Nursing Interventions for Roslyn

Roslyn is a six-year-old girl who has just been diagnosed with sickle cell anemia. Sickle cell anemia is a genetic disorder that affects the red blood cells. The red blood cells in people with sickle cell anemia are sickle-shaped, which makes them less flexible and more likely to clump together. This can block blood flow to the organs and tissues, causing pain, fatigue, and other problems.