Final answer:
To prevent sickle cell crisis in a preschool child with sickle cell disease, the nurse should teach parents to notify the healthcare provider if the child develops a fever, give prescribed penicillin, and notify the healthcare provider if the child develops symptoms of a cold.
Step-by-step explanation:
When teaching parents of a preschool child with sickle cell disease about the prevention of sickle cell crisis, it is important for the nurse to include the following information:
- Notify the health care provider if a fever of 38.5°C (101.3°F) or greater occurs: Fever can indicate an infection, which can trigger a sickle cell crisis. It is important to monitor and report any fevers to the healthcare provider.
- Give penicillin as prescribed: Penicillin is commonly prescribed to prevent infections in children with sickle cell disease. It helps protect against certain types of bacterial infections.
- Notify the health care provider if your child begins to develop symptoms of a cold: Common colds can also lead to sickle cell crisis. It is important to monitor for any signs of a cold and inform the healthcare provider.