Authors

  1. Hanik, Maria DNP, APRN-BC, OCN
  2. Sackett, Kay M. EdD, RN
  3. Hartman, Lisa L. LPC, DNP

Abstract

Sickle cell disease is a genetic blood disorder primarily affecting individuals of African descent. Studies of healthcare providers suggest there is inadequate knowledge about the pathophysiology and clinical presentations of the disease, and misperceptions of patients' behaviors and communication during crisis that have led to inappropriate staff attitudes and thus become major barriers to the delivery of optimal care. In this article, the authors describe the effect of an educational module on improving healthcare staffs' attitudes toward patients with sickle cell disease.