What instruction should the nurse suggest for the care plan of an adolescent in sickle cell crisis?

The most appropriate instruction in the care plan for an adolescent experiencing a sickle cell crisis is to focus on passive range-of-motion exercises. During a sickle cell crisis, patients experience significant pain, inflammation, and potential complications related to blood vessel blockage and tissue ischemia. Engaging in passive range-of-motion exercises can help maintain joint mobility without exerting too much energy, which is crucial when the patient is in pain. These gentle movements also promote circulation and can assist in reducing stiffness.

In contrast, engaging in vigorous physical activities is inadvisable during a crisis as it can exacerbate pain and increase the risk of further complications. Strict bed rest might seem logical, but it may not allow for adequate circulation or prevent joint stiffness; instead, gentle movement is encouraged to avoid complications. Increasing fluid intake dramatically is indeed vital in managing sickle cell crisis to help reduce blood viscosity and prevent further sickling of red blood cells, but passive range-of-motion exercises specifically address the immediate issues of pain and immobility during the crisis. Thus, while hydration is essential, encouraging movement through passive exercises is particularly beneficial at this stage.