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Updated: Aug 4, 2026

Continuous Manual Exchange Transfusion for Patients with Sickle Cell Disease: An Efficient Method to Avoid Iron Overload
Published on: March 14, 2017
Childrens' and adolescents' use of diaries for sickle cell pain
V E Maikler1, M E Broome, P Bailey
1Rush University, College of Nursing, Chicago, USA. vmaikler@rushu.rush.edu
Issues And Purpose:
To evaluate the characteristics of vaso-occlusive episodes, home management of pain and its impact on the daily activities, and a diary as a method of data collection.
Design And Methods:
Forty-six adolescents and 75 children were asked to complete daily diaries during the intervention period of a larger study.
Results:
Mild pain was recorded 95% of the time; moderate pain, 3%; and severe pain, 1%. The pattern and location of pain varied greatly. Adolescents used more interventions than did children. When pain intensity was mild, 80% of the children/adolescents maintained school, social, and home activities, but decreased play/sport activities. When pain intensity was high, they decreased their participation in all activities.
Practice Implications:
Sickle cell pain episodes are unpredictable and highly variable. Diaries can enhance children's and adolescents' documentation and communication about their pain experiences.
Related Concept Videos
Data Reporting and Recording
Guidelines for Nursing Documentation I
Factual:
The following points emphasize the significance of upholding accurate and unbiased documentation in healthcare.
Guidelines for Nursing Documentation II
Timely documentation is crucial to ensure continuity of care for patients. Any delays in recording or reporting medical information can result in medical errors and even adverse patient outcomes. From medication administration to diagnostic test results, every detail must be accurately and promptly documented to provide the best possible care for patients.
Methods of Documentation III: PIE
Methods of Documentation IV: Focus Charting
It typically involves three columns for recording information:
Flow Sheet
Here's a closer look at the examples of flowsheets commonly used by nurses:
Graphic Sheet Documentation:

