Question

The nurse is teaching the family of a teenager suffering from a sickle cell crisis about pain management. Which statement by the family would indicate a need for further teaching?

a) "We will encourage our teenager to stay well-hydrated."
b) "We understand the importance of regular pain medication."
c) "We will limit physical activity to prevent fatigue."
d) "We will use a heating pad for pain relief."

Answer 1

Using a heating pad for pain relief is not recommended for a teenager suffering from a sickle cell crisis.

Step-by-step explanation:

The correct statement that would indicate a need for further teaching is d) "We will use a heating pad for pain relief."

Sickle cell crisis is a complication of sickle cell anemia, which causes severe pain due to the clumping of sickle-shaped red blood cells. Heat can actually worsen the pain by increasing inflammation and blood flow to the affected area. Instead, cold therapy, such as ice packs, can help reduce pain and inflammation. Therefore, using a heating pad for pain relief is not recommended and requires further teaching.