A nurse is assessing a client who just received a blood transfusion. The client complains of back pain, fever, and chills. What action should the nurse take first?
Notify the healthcare provider immediately.
Administer acetaminophen to reduce the fever.
Stop the transfusion and disconnect the IV tubing.
Infuse normal saline to maintain the client's hydration.
The Correct Answer is C
A. Notifying the healthcare provider is important but should be done after stopping the transfusion to prevent further reaction.
B. Administering acetaminophen does not address the underlying cause of the reaction and should not be the priority.
C. Stopping the transfusion and disconnecting the IV tubing is the first priority to prevent further exposure to the incompatible blood product, which could lead to a life-threatening hemolytic reaction.
D. Infusing normal saline is appropriate to maintain hydration, but it should be done after stopping the transfusion.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) Correct: The client's symptoms of respiratory distress and chest pain indicate a potential transfusion-related acute lung injury (TRALI), a severe transfusion reaction. The nurse's priority intervention is to administer oxygen via a non-rebreather mask to improve oxygenation.
B) Incorrect: Discontinuing the blood transfusion immediately is necessary in suspected cases of TRALI, but it is not the priority intervention. First, the nurse should provide immediate respiratory support by administering oxygen.
C) Incorrect: Elevating the client's feet and lowering the head (Trendelenburg position) is not indicated for TRALI. It may be used for clients in shock, but the priority is to manage the client's respiratory distress and chest pain.
D) Incorrect: Administering diuretics is not the priority intervention for TRALI. TRALI is caused by a reaction to plasma components, not fluid overload, and diuretics may not address the underlying cause.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) Incorrect: Placing the client in a supine position with legs elevated is not appropriate in this situation. The client is showing signs of a potential severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) or a transfusion-related acute lung injury (TRALI), and the nurse should prioritize interventions accordingly.
B) Correct: Administering oxygen via a non-rebreather mask is the appropriate immediate action for a client experiencing respiratory distress and muffled heart sounds. This intervention helps improve oxygenation and respiratory function.
C) Incorrect: Checking the client's temperature and administering antipyretics is not indicated as the client's symptoms are not consistent with a fever. The focus should be on respiratory and cardiovascular support.
D) Incorrect: Stopping the blood transfusion is essential, but it is not the immediate action in this situation. The nurse's priority is to address the client's respiratory distress and ensure adequate oxygenation by administering oxygen, as stated in option B. Once the client is stable, the nurse should then notify the healthcare provider about the situation.
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