A nurse who is left-handed is preparing to perform a straight catheterization for a client. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

A) Dysrhythmias:
Straining while defecating can trigger the Valsalva maneuver, which involves taking a deep breath and bearing down. This can lead to increased intrathoracic pressure, decreased venous return to the heart, and subsequently a sudden drop in blood pressure when the strain is released. These changes can cause cardiac dysrhythmias, particularly in older adults or those with underlying heart conditions.

B) Dilated pupils:
Dilated pupils are not a known consequence of straining while defecating. Pupillary dilation is typically associated with responses to low light, certain medications, or neurological conditions, rather than gastrointestinal strain.

C) Gastric ulcer:
Gastric ulcers are caused by factors such as Helicobacter pylori infection, prolonged use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), or excessive stomach acid. Straining during defecation does not contribute to the development of gastric ulcers.

D) Diarrhea:
Straining while defecating is more likely to be associated with constipation rather than diarrhea. Diarrhea involves frequent, loose, or watery stools, whereas straining typically occurs due to hard stools and difficulty passing them.

A. Prime the blood tubing with dextrose 5% in water:
Priming the blood tubing with dextrose 5% in water is not appropriate for a blood transfusion. Blood tubing should be primed with normal saline, not dextrose solutions, to prevent hemolysis of the blood components.
B. Check vital signs before transfusion:
Before initiating a blood transfusion, it's essential to assess the client's vital signs, including temperature, pulse, respiratory rate, and blood pressure. Monitoring vital signs before, during, and after the transfusion helps identify any adverse reactions promptly.
C. Insert an IV with a 13-gauge needle:
Using a 13-gauge needle for IV insertion is not appropriate for a blood transfusion. Typically, a smaller gauge needle, such as 18 or 20 gauge, is used for venous access during a blood transfusion to minimize discomfort and reduce the risk of hemolysis.
D. Transfuse the blood product within 5 hr after removing it from refrigeration:
Blood products should be transfused within a specific timeframe after removal from refrigeration to minimize the risk of bacterial growth and subsequent infection. Typically, this timeframe is within 4 hours for packed red blood cells and within 24 hours for platelets. Adhering to the recommended timeframe ensures the safety and efficacy of the transfusion.
E. Check the expiration date of the blood product with a second nurse:
Verifying the expiration date of the blood product with a second nurse or healthcare provider is a crucial step to ensure patient safety and prevent the administration of expired blood products. This double-check process helps mitigate the risk of administering outdated or expired blood components.