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

A Cerebral Vascular Accident (Stroke) is indeed characterized by a sudden decrease in blood flow to the brain. In patients with Sickle Cell Disease, the abnormal sickle-shaped red blood cells can obstruct blood vessels due to their rigidity and tendency to clump together. This obstruction can lead to ischemia, resulting in stroke. The reduced blood flow can cause damage to brain tissue, leading to neurological deficits or even death if not promptly treated.

The occurrence of stroke in sickle cell patients highlights the importance of early recognition and management strategies aimed at preventing such complications. These patients may be at a higher risk for both ischemic stroke, which is caused by an obstruction of blood flow, and hemorrhagic stroke, which results from blood vessel rupture.

Understanding this complication underscores the need for regular monitoring and possible interventions, such as blood transfusions or hydroxyurea therapy, to reduce the frequency of sickle cell crises and to prevent vascular occlusions.