Certified Pediatric Hematology Oncology Nurse (CPHON) Practice Exam 2025 - Free CPHON Practice Questions and Study Guide

The term Hb AS refers to the carrier state for sickle cell hemoglobin, indicating that the individual possesses one normal hemoglobin gene (A) and one sickle cell gene (S). This genotype is also known as sickle cell trait. People with Hb AS typically do not experience the symptoms associated with sickle cell disease, as they have enough normal hemoglobin to prevent sickling under normal circumstances. However, they can pass the sickle cell gene to their offspring, which makes the identification of Hb AS crucial in genetic counseling and family planning.

In contrast, acute sickle cell disease, severe sickle cell disease, and moderate SCD refer to more complex conditions relating to the Hb SS genotype, where individuals have two copies of the sickle cell gene and experience varying degrees of health challenges associated with sickling episodes. Understanding the distinction between Hb AS and these disease states is important for nurses caring for patients and families affected by sickle cell disorders.