A nurse is monitoring a client who is receiving a unit of packed RBCs following surgery. Which of the following assessments is an indication that the client might be experiencing a hemolytic reaction?
Vomiting
Flushing
Dyspnea
Hypotension
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason: Vomiting is not a specific sign of a hemolytic reaction, as it can be caused by many other factors, such as anesthesia, infection, or medication. Vomiting may occur in other types of transfusion reactions, such as allergic or febrile reactions, but it is not indicative of hemolysis.
Choice B reason: Flushing is not a specific sign of a hemolytic reaction, as it can be caused by many other factors, such as fever, infection, or medication. Flushing may occur in other types of transfusion reactions, such as allergic or febrile reactions, but it is not indicative of hemolysis.
Choice C reason: Dyspnea is often linked with transfusion-associated circulatory overload (TACO) or transfusion-related acute lung injury (TRALI). Both of these conditions primarily impact the respiratory system, leading to difficulty breathing. Although respiratory symptoms can accompany severe reactions, dyspnea is not a key feature of a hemolytic reaction.
Choice D reason: Hypotension is a significant indicator of an acute hemolytic reaction. When the recipient’s immune system attacks the donor red blood cells, widespread inflammatory and immune responses occur, leading to vascular collapse. This can manifest as sudden low blood pressure, which is life-threatening if not recognized and treated immediately. Alongside other findings such as fever, chills, flank pain, and hemoglobinuria, hypotension is a classic hallmark of hemolysis during transfusion.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: The nurse collects a urine specimen is an appropriate action, as it can help detect the presence of hemoglobinuria, which is a sign of hemolysis. Hemoglobinuria is the excretion of hemoglobin in the urine, which can cause the urine to appear red or brown.
Choice B reason: The nurse sends a blood specimen to the laboratory is an appropriate action, as it can help confirm the diagnosis of a hemolytic reaction and identify the cause. The laboratory can perform tests such as blood typing, cross-matching, direct antiglobulin test (DAT), and serum bilirubin.
Choice C reason: The nurse initiates an infusion of 0.9% sodium chloride is an appropriate action, as it can help maintain the client's fluid and electrolyte balance and prevent hypovolemic shock. 0.9% sodium chloride is the preferred solution for blood transfusion reactions, as it is isotonic and compatible with blood products.
Choice D reason: The nurse starts the transfusion of another unit of blood product is an inappropriate action, as it can worsen the client's condition and increase the risk of complications. The nurse should not resume the transfusion until the cause of the reaction is determined and the provider orders a new unit of blood product. The nurse should also return the unused blood product and tubing to the blood bank for analysis.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: "I'll be sure to eat more foods with vitamin K." is not the correct statement. Vitamin K is a nutrient that helps the blood to clot. Warfarin is an anticoagulant that inhibits the action of vitamin K and prevents the formation of blood clots. Eating more foods with vitamin K can counteract the effect of warfarin and increase the risk of thrombosis. The client should maintain a consistent intake of vitamin K and avoid sudden changes in their diet.
Choice B reason: "I'll take aspirin for my headaches." is not the correct statement. Aspirin is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that inhibits platelet aggregation and prolongs bleeding time. Taking aspirin with warfarin can increase the risk of bleeding and bruising. The client should avoid taking any NSAIDs without consulting their provider. The client should use acetaminophen or other non-NSAID pain relievers for their headaches.
Choice C reason: "I'll use my electric razor for shaving." is the correct statement. Using an electric razor for shaving can reduce the risk of cuts and bleeding. The client should avoid using sharp objects or instruments that can cause injury or trauma. The client should also use a soft toothbrush and floss gently to prevent bleeding gums.
Choice D reason: "It's okay to have a couple of glasses of wine with dinner each evening." is not the correct statement. Alcohol can interact with warfarin and affect its metabolism and effectiveness. Drinking alcohol with warfarin can either increase or decrease the blood levels of warfarin and alter the international normalized ratio (INR), which is a measure of the blood's clotting ability. The client should limit their alcohol intake and monitor their INR regularly.
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.
