HESI Pediatric Practice Exam Related

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A 6-year-old child with sickle cell anemia presents to the emergency department with severe pain in the legs and abdomen. The child is crying and states that the pain is unbearable. What is the nurse's priority action?

  • A. Apply warm compresses to the painful areas
  • B. Administer prescribed pain medication
  • C. Encourage the child to drink fluids
  • D. Monitor the child's oxygen saturation
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In a sickle cell crisis, pain management is a priority to alleviate the child's suffering. Administering the prescribed pain medication is crucial to address the severe pain experienced by the child. Warm compresses, fluid intake, and oxygen saturation monitoring are important interventions but should follow the priority of pain management in this situation.