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?

 

Sample Solution

Priority Nursing Interventions for Roslyn

The priority nursing interventions for Roslyn focus on managing her pain, preventing complications, and providing education to her and her family. These interventions should be tailored to Roslyn’s individual needs and circumstances.

  1. Pain Management:
    • Assess Roslyn’s pain intensity and frequency using a pain scale.
    • Administer pain medication as ordered by the physician.
    • Implement non-pharmacological pain management strategies, such as warm compresses, massage, and relaxation techniques.
    • Encourage adequate rest and hydration.
  2. Prevention of Complications:
    • Ensure adequate hydration to prevent dehydration, which can worsen sickle cell symptoms.
    • Encourage Roslyn to avoid extreme temperatures and strenuous activities that could trigger sickle cell crises.
    • Provide regular immunizations to prevent infections.
    • Monitor Roslyn’s for signs of complications, such as fever, severe pain, or pale skin.
  3. Education for Roslyn and Family:
    • Provide comprehensive education about sickle cell anemia, including its causes, symptoms, and management strategies.
    • Explain the importance of regular follow-up care with a hematologist.
    • Discuss the importance of identifying and managing triggers for sickle cell crises.
    • Encourage open communication between Roslyn, her family, and the healthcare team.

Anticipatory Guidance for Roslyn and Family Regarding School

  1. School Communication:
    • Collaborate with Roslyn’s school nurse and teachers to develop an individualized education plan (IEP) that accommodates her needs.
    • Educate Roslyn’s teachers about sickle cell anemia and its potential impact on her school performance.
    • Provide Roslyn with a “sickle cell action plan” to guide school personnel in managing pain or other symptoms that may arise during school hours.
  2. Activity Management:
    • Work with Roslyn’s school to identify and modify activities that may be too strenuous for her.
    • Encourage Roslyn to take regular breaks and participate in activities she enjoys.
    • Provide Roslyn with a comfortable and well-hydrated environment at school.
  3. Emotional Support:
    • Help Roslyn understand her condition and empower her to manage her own care.
    • Address any concerns or anxieties that Roslyn or her family may have.
    • Encourage Roslyn to build friendships and participate in school activities that promote social inclusion.

Support for Roslyn and Family

  1. Emotional Support:
    • Provide emotional support to Roslyn and her family during this challenging time.
    • Help them cope with the diagnosis and its implications for their lives.
    • Connect them with support groups or other resources for families with children with sickle cell anemia.
  2. Advocacy:
    • Advocate for Roslyn’s needs at school and in the community.
    • Help them navigate the healthcare system and access necessary resources.
    • Empower them to be active participants in Roslyn’s care.
  3. Community Resources:
    • Connect Roslyn and her family with community resources that can provide additional support, such as financial assistance, transportation services, and educational programs.
    • Encourage them to participate in community activities and events that can foster a sense of belonging and support.

Discharge Instructions for Roslyn and Parents

  1. Medication:
    • Provide clear instructions on administering pain medication and any other prescribed medications.
    • Emphasize the importance of taking medications as directed and completing the entire course of antibiotics.
  2. Pain Management:
    • Educate Roslyn and her parents on identifying and managing pain triggers.
    • Provide instructions on using non-pharmacological pain management strategies.
    • Encourage them to seek medical attention promptly if Roslyn experiences severe pain.
  3. Activity Management:
    • Provide a list of activities that Roslyn should avoid due to her condition.
    • Encourage her to engage in low-impact activities that promote physical activity and well-being.
    • Emphasize the importance of rest and adequate hydration.
  4. Follow-up Care:
    • Schedule follow-up appointments with the hematologist to monitor Roslyn’s condition and adjust treatment plans as needed.
    • Remind Roslyn and her parents to keep vaccination records up to date.
    • Encourage them to contact the healthcare team if they have any questions or concerns.

Activity Restrictions after Discharge

Roslyn’s activity restrictions after discharge will depend on the severity of her condition and her individual response to treatment. However, some general guidelines include:

  1. Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Roslyn should avoid exposure to extreme cold or heat, as these conditions can trigger sickle cell crises.
  2. Limit Strenuous Activities: Roslyn should engage in low-impact activities that do not cause excessive fatigue or discomfort. St

 

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