A 25-year-old male is admitted in sickle cell crisis. Which of the following interventions would be of the highest priority for this client?
A. Taking hourly blood pressures with mechanical cuff
B. Encouraging fluid intake of at least 200mL per hour
C. Position in high Fowler’s with knee gatch raised
D. Administering Tylenol as ordered
Correct Answer: B. Encouraging fluid intake of at least 200mL per hour
It is important to keep the client in sickle cell crisis hydrated to prevent further sickling of the blood.
Option A: Taking hourly blood pressures with mechanical cuff is incorrect because a mechanical cuff places too much pressure on the arm.
Option C: Position in high Fowler’s with knee gatch raised is inappropriate because it impedes circulation.
Option D: Administering Tylenol is too mild an analgesic for the client in crisis.