The nurse is caring for a patient in sickle cell crisis. What is the rationale for providing warm compresses and blankets for this patient?

A. While shivering can worsen pain, the primary purpose of heat is not to prevent shivering. B. Heat does not affect RBC formation or prevent sickling directly; sickling is caused by deoxygenation and hemoglobin abnormalities. C. Heat may provide comfort, but the physiological benefit is more significant than simple distraction or muscle relaxation. D. Heat increases circulation by preventing vasoconstriction, which helps improve blood flow and reduces the risk of further sickling and ischemic pain during a crisis.