A patient in labour has a diagnosis of sickle cell anaemia. Which action will the nurse take to assist in preventing the client from experiencing a sickling crisis during labour?

Correct option is B

Administering oxygen maintains oxygen saturation and prevents hypoxia, a major trigger for sickling of red blood cells. Explanation of options:
· (a) ✘ Emotional support is helpful but not preventative.
· (b) ✔ Correct; oxygen prevents crisis.
· (c) ✘ Antibiotics are used for infection, not crisis prevention.
· (d) ✘ Asepsis is important but not directly linked to sickling.