Which action should the nurse plan to take for a patient with multiple sclerosis who has urinary retention caused by a flaccid bladder?

Choice A reason: The red blood cell (RBC) count provided is significantly below the normal range (4,700,000-6,100,000/μL). However, the unit of measure given in the question (48,000/μL) is incorrect for RBCs, so it may not be consistent with the symptoms of fatigue and palpitations. Typically, a low RBC count can contribute to these symptoms, but in this case, the measurement provided is not clear.
Choice B reason: Platelets of 120,000/μL are below the normal range (150,000-400,000/μL). While low platelet counts (thrombocytopenia) can lead to bleeding and bruising, they are not typically associated with symptoms of fatigue and palpitations. This finding is more indicative of a potential bleeding disorder rather than anemia or another condition that would cause the given symptoms.
Choice C reason: Hemoglobin (Hgb) of 6.9g/dL is significantly below the normal range (14-18g/dL) and indicates severe anemia. Anemia is a common cause of fatigue and palpitations because the body has a reduced capacity to carry oxygen to tissues. Low hemoglobin levels can lead to decreased oxygen delivery, resulting in increased fatigue and compensatory palpitations as the heart works harder to circulate oxygen-poor blood.
Choice D reason: White blood cell (WBC) count of 11,000/mm³ is slightly above the normal range (5,000-10,000/mm³) and indicates a mild leukocytosis, which is usually a sign of infection or inflammation. While leukocytosis can cause fatigue if there is an underlying infection, it is not directly associated with palpitations and severe fatigue. The primary concern with fatigue and palpitations lies more with oxygen-carrying capacity, which is affected by hemoglobin levels.

1. Ensure MDHCP has discussed risks and benefits of blood transfusion. (a)
2. Educate patient on signs and symptoms of transfusion reaction. (d)
3. Obtain cross match and send it to blood bank. (b)
4. Gain blood from bank, confirm correct patient, correct product, correct cross match with 2 RNs. (e)
5. Initiate transfusion through a large gauge IV per hospital protocol. (c)
6. Start transfusion slowly for the first 15 minutes and stay with patient for the first 15 minutes. (f)
7. Increase rate of transfusion and monitor patient frequently. (g)
8. Ensure transfusion is complete within 4 hours of starting. (h)
9. Continue to monitor patient for transfusion reaction for 24 hours following transfusion. (i)

Rationale:

1. Ensure MDHCP has discussed risks and benefits of blood transfusion: It's essential that the healthcare provider discusses with the patient the potential risks and benefits of receiving a blood transfusion. This step is crucial for informed consent.
2. Educate patient on signs and symptoms of transfusion reaction: Before starting the transfusion, the patient should be educated on what signs and symptoms to watch out for that might indicate an adverse reaction, such as fever, chills, hives, or shortness of breath.
3. Obtain cross match and send it to blood bank: A blood sample is taken from the patient to determine their blood type and to perform a crossmatch, which ensures that the donor blood is compatible with the patient's blood.
4. Gain blood from bank, confirm correct patient, correct product, correct cross match with 2 RNs: Once the blood is ready, two registered nurses (RNs) will verify the patient's identity, the blood product, and the crossmatch results to ensure everything is correct before proceeding.
5. Initiate transfusion through a large gauge IV per hospital protocol: The blood transfusion is started using a large gauge intravenous (IV) line, as per hospital protocols to ensure proper flow and reduce complications.
6. Start transfusion slowly for the first 15 minutes and stay with patient for the first 15 minutes: The transfusion is started at a slow rate to monitor for any immediate adverse reactions. The healthcare provider stays with the patient during this time to closely observe them.
7. Increase rate of transfusion and monitor patient frequently: If no adverse reactions are noted in the first 15 minutes, the rate of transfusion can be increased. The patient is monitored frequently throughout the transfusion for any signs of a reaction.
8. Ensure transfusion is complete within 4 hours of starting: Blood products should be transfused within 4 hours to minimize the risk of bacterial growth and to ensure the effectiveness of the transfusion.
9. Continue to monitor patient for transfusion reaction for 24 hours following transfusion: After the transfusion is complete, the patient is monitored for at least 24 hours for any delayed transfusion reactions, such as fever, allergic reactions, or other complications.