A client presents to the emergency department having a severe sickle cell crisis. The nurse should be prepared to do which of the following interventions? (Select all that apply.)
A) Administer oxygen.
B) Offer heat therapy.
C) Order hydroxyurea from the pharmacy.
D) Prepare to give IV morphine.
E) Start an IV with normal saline.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Care of the client in sickle cell crisis includes administering oxygen, providing heat for painful joints, giving IV opioids (morphine is preferred), and providing hydration with IV fluids. Hydroxyurea has been approved by the FDA for SSD, but is given long-term to clients for whom other treatments are not effective and who have frequent, painful crises.

A Client Presents to the Emergency Department Having a Severe