37820 Sickle Cell Disease

Course overview

Discussion of sickle cell disease (SCD), including how it is inherited, signs and symptoms, complications, management, prevention, and treatment options. SCD is a group of inherited red blood cell disorders, and is a serious medical condition that affects millions of individuals worldwide. It is estimated that SCD affects approximately 100,000 Americans, and it occurs in about one out of every 365 births in African-American babies. While individuals with SCD may live full lives, they also require lifelong medical care, and often suffer from complications related to the disease. Nurses who care for individuals with SCD need to have a solid understanding of the disease process, complications, and management in order to provide the best care for these patients. This program discusses SCD, including diagnosis, signs and symptoms, complications, and management.