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Multiple Choice
Which condition is most likely to create a vasoocclusive crisis in patients with sickle cell disease?
A
Hypertension
B
Hypothermia
C
Dehydration
D
Hyperhydration
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the nature of sickle cell disease: Sickle cell disease is a genetic disorder that affects the shape of red blood cells, causing them to become rigid and sickle-shaped. This can lead to blockages in blood vessels, known as vasoocclusive crises.
Identify the factors that can trigger a vasoocclusive crisis: Conditions that increase the likelihood of red blood cells sticking together or becoming more rigid can trigger a vasoocclusive crisis.
Analyze the options provided: Hypertension, hypothermia, dehydration, and hyperhydration are the conditions listed. Consider how each might affect blood viscosity and red blood cell behavior.
Focus on dehydration: Dehydration reduces the volume of plasma in the blood, increasing blood viscosity and the likelihood of sickle cells clumping together, which can lead to blockages in blood vessels.
Conclude why dehydration is the correct answer: Dehydration is most likely to create a vasoocclusive crisis because it exacerbates the sickling of red blood cells and increases the risk of blockages in the blood vessels.