A nurse is monitoring a client who is receiving a blood transfusion. After 15 minutes of starting the transfusion, the client develops hives, itching, and facial swelling. What is the nurse's immediate action?
Slow down the transfusion rate.
Elevate the client's feet and lower the head.
Discontinue the transfusion and infuse normal saline.
Administer an antihistamine as prescribed.
The Correct Answer is C
A) Incorrect: Slowing down the transfusion rate is not the appropriate action in this scenario. The client is experiencing signs of an allergic reaction, and the nurse must act promptly to address the situation.
B) Incorrect: Elevating the client's feet and lowering the head (Trendelenburg position) is not indicated for an allergic reaction. It may be used for clients in shock, but the priority is to manage the allergic reaction.
C) Correct: The nurse should immediately discontinue the transfusion and initiate the infusion of normal saline to maintain the client's intravascular volume. Discontinuing the blood transfusion helps prevent further exposure to the allergen (if an allergic reaction is confirmed) and addresses fluid volume needs.
D) Incorrect: While administering an antihistamine may be part of the treatment plan for an allergic reaction, it is not the immediate action. The nurse should first discontinue the transfusion and infuse normal saline as stated in option C.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A) Incorrect: A slight increase in blood pressure is not a significant vital sign alteration that requires immediate reporting before initiating the transfusion. It could be related to various factors, such as anxiety or pain.
B) Incorrect: A respiratory rate of 22 breaths per minute is within the normal range for an adult and does not require immediate reporting before starting the transfusion.
C) Incorrect: A decrease in heart rate from 88 to 72 beats per minute is not a critical vital sign alteration. As long as the heart rate remains within the client's baseline range, it does not need immediate reporting.
D) Correct: An elevated temperature of 38.5°C (101.3°F) may indicate a fever, which could be a sign of an infection or an adverse reaction to the transfusion. The nurse should report this vital sign alteration to the healthcare provider before proceeding with the transfusion to determine the appropriate course of action.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) Incorrect: Fever and chills during a blood transfusion may be signs of a febrile transfusion reaction, not an allergic reaction. The nurse should provide information specific to preventing allergic reactions.
B) Correct: Itching, rash, and facial swelling are common signs of an allergic transfusion reaction. The nurse should instruct the client to notify the healthcare provider immediately if they experience these symptoms.
C) Incorrect: A brief period of increased heart rate after the transfusion may be normal, but it is not specific to preventing an allergic transfusion reaction. The nurse should focus on providing information about allergic reaction symptoms.
D) Incorrect: Lower back pain is not typically associated with allergic transfusion reactions. The nurse should provide information about symptoms that indicate an allergic reaction, such as itching, rash, and facial swelling.
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.