A nurse is creating a plan of care for a child who has sickle cell anemia. Which of the following interventions should the nurse include in the plan?

A. Applying cold compresses is contraindicated for sickle cell crises. Cold temperatures can cause vasoconstriction, which may worsen sickling and increase pain. Warm compresses or gentle heat are preferred to relieve pain and promote circulation. B. Discouraging high fluid intake is incorrect. Adequate hydration is essential in sickle cell anemia to prevent sickling of red blood cells and reduce the risk of vaso-occlusive crises. The nurse should encourage oral or IV fluids as appropriate. C. Administering meperidine every 4 hours for pain is correct. Children with sickle cell anemia often experience severe pain due to vaso-occlusive crises, and scheduled analgesics, including opioids like meperidine, are used to manage pain effectively. Pain control is a priority in the plan of care. (Note: Current best practice sometimes prefers morphine over meperidine due to risk of neurotoxicity with repeated meperidine use.) D. Observing for hypokalemia is not a priority intervention for sickle cell anemia. Electrolyte imbalances may occur in some cases, but the focus is on pain management, hydration, oxygenation, and preventing complications such as infection or stroke