child health Flashcards
Sickle Cell Disease
During a vaso-occlusive crisis (VOC),
maintain
bed rest to reduce oxygen demand, give IV fluids
to improve perfusion, and administer high-dose
analgesics.
When treating a painful VOC,
avoid cold compresses,
which cause vasoconstriction, and meperidine,
which can induce seizures in clients with SCD.
If VOC pain persists after analgesics have taken
effect,
notify the HCP, as additional pain medication
may be needed (PCA pump, around-the-clock
dosing).
Teach caregivers to report signs
of acute chest
syndrome or severe infection, such as chest pain or
high fever ≥101.3 F (38.5 C).
To prevent sickle cell crises,
the client should hydrate frequently, take breaks during physical activity, and avoid extreme temperatures.