a 2-year-old with hemophilia A who has suddenly become less responsive
a 15-year-old with sickle cell disease complaining of lower right quadrant abdominal pain
a 6-year-old who just had a tonsillectomy 2 hours earlier and is frequently swallowing
a 12-year-old with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes whose parents need teaching on insulin
Number 2 is correct.
Clients with sickle cell disease commonly present with pain during a crisis. The newly graduated nurse is qualified to assess the client’s pain and administer ordered pain medications. A client with a clotting disorder and a decreased level of consciousness is an emergency situation due to possible intracerebral bleeding and is not appropriate for an inexperienced nurse. Swallowing after a tonsillectomy indicates possible bleeding and should be assessed by the more experienced nurse. Client teaching is an important and more advanced skill that takes time to develop. Insulin is a high-alert drug, and incorrect information from the new nurse may cause harm to the client.
