A nurse is assessing a client who is receiving a blood transfusion. The nurse notes lung crackles, hypoxia, and distended neck veins. Which of the following actions should the nurse take? (Select all that apply.)

A.An 18-gauge, 1-inch needle is too large for subcutaneous injections like heparin. Heparin is administered subcutaneously using a smaller needle (e.g., 25- or 27-gauge) to minimize tissue trauma.

B.Heparin should be injected into the subcutaneous tissue, typically in the abdomen, but at least 2 inches (5.1 cm) away from the umbilicus to avoid the rich vascular supply and reduce the risk of bleeding or bruising in this area.

C.Air bubbles should not be expelled from prefilled syringes of heparin because the air bubble ensures the full dose is delivered and helps prevent medication from leaking into the subcutaneous tissue, reducing bruising at the injection site. Prefilled syringes are designed with this in mind.

D.Massaging the injection site after administering heparin increases the risk of bruising and bleeding due to the anticoagulant effects of heparin. Gentle pressure may be applied to prevent bleeding, but massaging should be avoided.

A. Place the client in high-Fowler's position: Placing the client in high-Fowler's position (sitting up at a 90-degree angle) can help improve oxygenation by optimizing lung expansion. This position facilitates better respiratory mechanics and can be beneficial for clients experiencing respiratory distress.

B. Administering epinephrine to the client: Epinephrine is not indicated for the management of fluid overload or transfusion reactions characterized by respiratory symptoms such as TRALI. Therefore, this action is not appropriate in this scenario.

C. Administer oxygen to the client: Hypoxia is a serious concern and requires immediate intervention. Administering oxygen will help improve oxygenation and alleviate respiratory distress.

D. Obtaining a prescription for a diuretic: While diuretics may be indicated in some cases of fluid overload, their use should be guided by the healthcare provider's assessment and prescription. Obtaining a prescription for a diuretic may be considered after the transfusion has been stopped and the healthcare provider has evaluated the client.

E. Stop the transfusion: The presence of lung crackles, hypoxia, and distended neck veins suggests fluid overload, which can be a sign of transfusion-related acute lung injury (TRALI) or circulatory overload. Stopping the transfusion is essential to prevent further fluid overload and worsening of respiratory symptoms.