What it means
A red blood cell that holds hemoglobin S, an inherited abnormal hemoglobin. When oxygen is low, the cell bends into a sickle shape, becomes stiff and sticky, and breaks down early. In sickle cell disease (sickle cell anemiaSIK-ul SEL uh-NEE-mee-uhAn inherited blood disorder in which abnormal hemoglobin makes red blood cells stiff and curved like a sickle.Full entry ), a person inherits the gene from both parents; the sickled cells block small vessels, causing episodes of severe pain and organ damage, and the early breakdown causes anemia. A person with one gene has sickle cell trait and usually has no symptoms.
For the nurse
During a pain crisis, give fluids and pain medicine as ordered, give oxygen if saturation is low, and keep the client warm. Teach the client to drink plenty of fluids and avoid high altitudes, very cold weather and overexertion, and to keep vaccines up to date.
At a glance
| Also written | sickle-cell, sickle cells |
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Related terms
hemoglobin
The iron-containing protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen, and the blood test that measures it.
anemia
A lower than normal number of red blood cells or amount of hemoglobin in the blood.
sickle cell anemia
An inherited blood disorder in which abnormal hemoglobin makes red blood cells stiff and curved like a sickle.