A client with a history of bleeding disorders presents to the emergency department with excessive bleeding from a minor cut. Which laboratory test should the nurse monitor to assess the client's clotting function?

A) Correct. Before administering a blood transfusion, obtaining informed consent from the client is essential to ensure the client understands the procedure, its potential risks, and provides their voluntary agreement for the transfusion.

B) Incorrect. While pain assessment is important, it is not the most crucial action before starting a blood transfusion.

C) Incorrect. Prophylactic antibiotics are not typically administered before a blood transfusion unless specifically indicated for the client's condition.

D) Incorrect. While taking vital signs is important, obtaining consent is more critical before starting a blood transfusion.

A) Incorrect. Administering oxygen is essential for a client experiencing difficulty breathing, but the nurse's immediate action should be to stop the blood transfusion and notify the healthcare provider.

B) Incorrect. While assessing the client's vital signs is important, the priority action is to stop the blood transfusion and seek immediate medical assistance.

C) Correct. Sudden difficulty breathing and chest pain after a blood transfusion may indicate an allergic reaction or transfusion-related acute lung injury (TRALI). The nurse should stop the transfusion immediately and inform the healthcare provider.

D) Incorrect. Elevating the head of the client's bed may be helpful in managing respiratory distress, but it is not the priority when there is a potential adverse reaction to the blood transfusion.