A nurse is planning to administer packed RBCs to an older adult client who has a low hemoglobin level.
Which of the following actions should the nurse plan to take?
Hang the transfusion with dextrose 5% in 0.9% sodium chloride.
Infuse the transfusion over 5 hr.
Use a 20-gauge IV catheter to transfuse the blood.
Monitor vital signs every hour throughout the transfusion.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale:
Hanging the transfusion with dextrose 5% in 0.9% sodium chloride is incorrect. Packed red blood cells (PRBCs) are transfused with normal saline (0.9% sodium chloride) and not with dextrose-containing solutions. Using dextrose can cause the red blood cells to hemolyze.
Choice B rationale:
Infusing the transfusion over 5 hours is incorrect. PRBC transfusions are typically administered over 2-4 hours, not 5 hours. Infusing the blood too slowly may cause the patient discomfort and may also increase the risk of bacterial growth in the blood product.
Choice C rationale:
Using a 20-gauge IV catheter to transfuse the blood is incorrect. While a 20-gauge IV catheter is suitable for most blood transfusions, it may not be appropriate for older adults or patients with fragile veins. A smaller gauge, such as 22 or 24, might be more suitable to prevent phlebitis and ensure a steady flow without damaging the blood cells.
Choice D rationale:
Monitoring vital signs every hour throughout the transfusion is the correct action. During a blood transfusion, it's crucial to monitor the patient's vital signs frequently to detect any adverse reactions promptly. Vital signs, including blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, and temperature, should be assessed before the transfusion, 15 minutes after starting the transfusion, and then hourly thereafter. This vigilant monitoring helps in identifying potential transfusion reactions, such as fever, chills, or hypotension, allowing for immediate intervention if needed.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","D"]
Explanation
- A: Correct. Firmly massaging the uterine fundus helps to contract the uterus and reduce bleeding.
- B: Correct. Providing emotional support helps to calm the client and reduce anxiety, which can worsen bleeding.
- C: Correct. Administering oxygen helps to improve tissue perfusion and oxygenation, which can be compromised by blood loss. Weighing the perineal pads helps to quantify the amount of blood loss and monitor for hemorrhage.
- D: Correct. Inserting an indwelling urinary catheter helps to empty the bladder and allow the uterus to descend and contract more effectively. Administering methylergonovine helps to stimulate uterine contractions and control bleeding.
- E: Incorrect. Administering terbutaline is contraindicated in this situation, as it relaxes the uterine smooth muscle and increases bleeding.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. The time of the provider’s last evaluation provides important clinical context regarding the client’s current status and any recent changes in the plan of care. This helps the receiving team anticipate follow-up assessments and interventions.
B. The client’s most recent ventilator settings are relevant because the client was recently weaned from mechanical ventilation. This information helps evaluate respiratory stability and guides ongoing monitoring for complications after a pneumonectomy.
C. The timing of the last dose of pain medication is essential for safe and effective pain management. It allows the receiving nurse to plan subsequent doses and monitor for effectiveness or adverse effects.
D. The frequency with which the client presses the call button does not contribute meaningful clinical information for the transfer report. It does not directly affect physiological status, treatment decisions, or continuity of care.
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