Which nursing action is best when addressing the needs of a child with hemophilia and hemarthrosis?

Administering desmopressin as prescribed is the best action when addressing the needs of a child with hemophilia and hemarthrosis because this medication plays a critical role in managing bleeding episodes. Desmopressin stimulates the release of von Willebrand factor and factor VIII, which are essential for proper blood clotting. In children with hemophilia, particularly those with mild to moderate forms, desmopressin can help reduce the severity of bleeding and promote clot formation, thus addressing the acute clinical needs associated with hemarthrosis.

While verifying the child's understanding of treatment is certainly an important aspect of nursing care, it does not directly address the immediate medical needs related to the hemarthrosis. Encouraging movement despite discomfort is not appropriate in this context, as it could exacerbate the bleeding and pain associated with hemarthrosis. Monitoring the temperature post-treatment is a valuable part of overall patient care, but it is more relevant to assessing for complications rather than directly addressing the hemophilia-related bleeding episode.

By focusing on the administration of desmopressin, the nurse provides an effective intervention that targets the underlying issue of inadequate clotting factors in the child, thus ensuring a more successful outcome in managing their condition.