Management of Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) In a Primary Care Setting



Abstract3

Research Statement4

Introduction4

Discussion5

Concept of Sickle Cell Disease5

Management of Sickle Cell Disease in a Primary Care Setting5

Management of Pre and post-Birth stages6

Screening, Diagnosis and Treatment7

Major Goals of Management8

Patient Education9

Nutritional counseling11

Management of Pregnancy11

Management through Pharmacological Therapy12

Pain and fever management12

Obstacles in Proper Management of SCD In Primary Care Settings14

Conclusion14

References16

Abstract

Sickle cell diseases are the hereditary disease, for which no cure is available till present. However, the managing of the disease might provide the benefits of increased quality of life and reduced mortality.

Management of Sickle Cell Disease in a Primary Care Setting

Research Statement

The management of sickle cell diseases in the primary health care settings is carried out through an approach of maintenance of individual's heath, minimizing the chances of complications, proper diagnosis and counseling of the patient. There are certain issues that the patients claim to face.

Introduction

Red blood cells are one of the most essential elements of the blood and perform different functions. One of the most essential functions of the red blood cells is to transport oxygen, through a protein attached to them called, hemoglobin. Sickle cell disease is characterized as a group of genetic disorders that affects these red blood cells. Although there is no complete cure for this disease, yet the management is necessary to avoid the occurrence of complications associated with the disease.

The primary healthcare settings bear the load of taking care of patients with various disease conditions. The patients with sickle cell diseases are also found in such settings. With the primary aim of achieving patient centered primary care and support, this community bases settings and healthcare clinics play a dynamic role in the management of the disease. This research document has studied the management of sickle cell diseases in primary care settings, the barriers and interventions that can bring positive changes in the practice.

Discussion

Concept of Sickle Cell Disease

The sickle cell diseases are genetic diseases that are transferred from parents to offspring. The diseases responsible for affecting the red blood cells, and forms an atypical hemoglobin called hemoglobin S (HB S). The most common situation seen with sickle cell diseases is the sickle cell anemia, in which the red blood cells become sickle or crescent shaped. These red blood cells are hardened and contain the abnormal hemoglobin called sickle hemoglobin (HB S). After the event of sickle cell disease occurs, the red blood cells become weak, and sickling occurs. The sickling is followed by premature breakdown and hence anemia occurs. The anemic condition elicits shortness of breath delayed development and growth of children and fatigue in the individuals. Prolong inadequately managed sickle cell diseases can cause organ damage and failure due to lack of oxygen supplementation. It is, therefore, necessary that the disease should be well managed.

The sickle cells are responsible for blocking the blood flow in various vessels, hence causing pain and organ damage. This blockage is facilitated by their sticky and thick appearance, through which they sticks in the blood vessels, and obstructs the normal flow of ...