A client received a blood transfusion 4 hours ago and now reports feeling lightheaded and dizzy. The nurse notes a drop in blood pressure and an increase in heart rate. What intervention should the nurse implement first?
Administer a bolus of normal saline.
Elevate the client's feet and lower the head.
Check the client's hemoglobin and hematocrit levels.
Notify the healthcare provider for further evaluation.
The Correct Answer is B
A) Incorrect: Administering a bolus of normal saline may help increase intravascular volume, but it is not the first intervention to be implemented. The nurse should first identify the cause of the client's symptoms and take appropriate actions.
B) Correct: The client's symptoms of feeling lightheaded and dizzy, along with a drop in blood pressure and an increase in heart rate, suggest orthostatic hypotension. The nurse's first intervention should be to elevate the client's feet and lower the head to improve blood flow to the brain.
C) Incorrect: Checking the client's hemoglobin and hematocrit levels is essential but may not be the first intervention in this situation. The client's symptoms indicate an immediate need to address the orthostatic hypotension.
D) Incorrect: Notifying the healthcare provider for further evaluation is important, but it may not be the first intervention. The nurse should first take immediate actions to address the client's symptoms of orthostatic hypotension.
Questions
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A) Incorrect: Discontinuing the blood transfusion may be necessary if the allergic reaction is severe, but it is not the appropriate action for a mild allergic reaction. The nurse should manage the current reaction and take preventive measures for future transfusions.
B) Incorrect: Administering an antihistamine is appropriate to manage the current allergic reaction,but it may not prevent future allergic reactions. The nurse should focus on preventing allergic reactions in future transfusions.
C) Incorrect: Notifying the healthcare provider is important for appropriate management, but it may not directly prevent future allergic reactions. The nurse should implement preventive measures.
D) Correct: Obtaining a sample for repeat crossmatching is essential to identify and select blood products that are less likely to cause an allergic reaction in the client. This step can help prevent future allergic transfusion reactions and ensure safer blood product selection.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) Correct: The client's symptoms of hives, itching, and facial swelling indicate a potential allergic transfusion reaction (urticarial reaction). The nurse's immediate action is to stop the transfusion immediately and notify the healthcare provider for further evaluation and intervention.
B) Incorrect: While administering an antihistamine may be part of the treatment plan for an allergic transfusion reaction, it is not the immediate action. The nurse should first stop the transfusion and notify the healthcare provider.
C) Incorrect: Slowing down the transfusion rate is not appropriate in the presence of an allergic transfusion reaction. The nurse should stop the transfusion immediately.
D) Incorrect: Placing the client in a supine position with legs elevated is not indicated for an allergic transfusion reaction. It may be used for clients in shock, but the priority is to manage the allergic reaction.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.