A nurse is assessing a patient who is receiving a blood transfusion.
The nurse observes that the patient has developed fever, chills, back pain, chest pain, dyspnea, and jaundice.
What type of transfusion reaction is the patient most likely experiencing?

"I'll verify the physician's order for the specific blood product."

Choice A rationale:

Selecting any available intravenous site for the transfusion without verifying the physician's order is unsafe and can lead to administering the wrong blood product or causing an adverse reaction in the patient.

Verifying the order is a critical step in ensuring patient safety during a blood transfusion.

Choice B rationale:

Using a blood administration set with additives may be necessary in some cases, but it is not the primary action the nurse should take before starting the transfusion.

Verifying the physician's order is the first and most crucial step.

Choice C rationale:

Verifying the physician's order for the specific blood product is essential to confirm that the correct blood type and unit are being administered to the patient.

This step ensures ABO and Rh compatibility and minimizes the risk of transfusion reactions.

Choice D rationale:

Administering the transfusion as quickly as possible is not appropriate and can be dangerous.

Transfusions should be administered at a controlled and appropriate rate to monitor for any adverse reactions.

Rushing the transfusion can increase the risk of complications.

Choice A rationale:

Verifying the patient's identification is an essential step in patient safety, but it alone does not ensure transfusion safety.

Transfusion safety involves multiple steps beyond identification.

Choice B rationale:

Maintaining aseptic technique and infection control practices is crucial during a blood transfusion.

This includes using sterile equipment, wearing gloves, and following proper hand hygiene.

Infection can be a severe complication of transfusion if proper precautions are not taken.

Choice C rationale:

Administering blood products using old and sterile equipment is not a safe practice.

Blood transfusions require the use of fresh, sterile equipment to prevent contamination and ensure patient safety.

Choice D rationale:

Monitoring the patient's condition only after the transfusion is not sufficient to ensure safety.

Continuous monitoring during the transfusion is necessary to detect and respond to any adverse reactions promptly.