Pediatric HESI 2023 Related

Review Pediatric HESI 2023 related questions and content

A child with sickle cell anemia develops severe chest pain, fever, a cough, and dyspnea. What should the nurse do first?

  • A. Administer 100% oxygen to relieve hypoxia
  • B. Administer pain medication to relieve symptoms
  • C. Notify the practitioner because chest syndrome is suspected
  • D. Notify the practitioner because the child may be having a stroke
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct action to take first when a child with sickle cell anemia presents with severe chest pain, fever, cough, and dyspnea is to notify the practitioner because acute chest syndrome is suspected. This condition is a medical emergency requiring prompt intervention. Administering oxygen or pain medication may be necessary interventions but should not precede notifying the practitioner. Stroke is not typically associated with these symptoms in sickle cell anemia.