You are a RN working in a busy Emergency Department (ED) caring for a patient with a stage 3 pressure injury of the right hip that is warm, and has purulent drainage. The ED physician orders an intermittent IV piggyback of the antibiotic Gentamycin to be started. What should you do prior to starting the infusion? Select the BEST answer.

A. Aging can lead to changes in immune function, including alterations in white blood cell counts. While absolute counts may not be drastically lower, the immune response may be less effective. This is important information as it helps the patient understand their altered immune status and potential infection risks.
B. Older adults may have a diminished immune response, which can lead to false-negative results in tuberculosis skin tests (e.g., PPD test). This is crucial information, as it can affect diagnosis and treatment decisions, highlighting the need for alternative screening methods.
C. Vaccinations are critical for older adults to help prevent infections. Influenza, pneumococcal, and shingles vaccines can significantly reduce the risk of these infections, which are more severe in the elderly. This is an essential component of their health maintenance.
D. Older adults are at increased risk for respiratory tract infections (like pneumonia) and genitourinary infections (like urinary tract infections) due to factors such as comorbidities and changes in immune function. Educating clients about these risks helps them recognize symptoms and seek timely care.
E. Older adults often require booster vaccinations to maintain immunity, as their immune response may diminish over time. This misinformation could lead to increased susceptibility to vaccine-preventable diseases.
F. It is common for elderly individuals to present with atypical signs of infection, including the absence of fever even in severe cases. This is important for both the patient and caregivers to understand, as it may lead to delayed recognition and treatment of infections.

A. This is the first and most critical action to take. The patient's symptoms suggest a possible transfusion reaction, which can be life-threatening. Stopping the transfusion immediately prevents further exposure to potentially harmful blood components.
B. Administering oxygen may be necessary if the patient exhibits signs of respiratory distress or hypoxia. However, this action should come after ensuring that the transfusion is stopped and the patient is stabilized, as continuing the transfusion could exacerbate the reaction.
C. While providing warmth can help alleviate chills, it is not the priority action. The patient's safety is more important, and symptoms of a transfusion reaction must be addressed first.
D. Checking the temperature can provide useful information about the patient's condition, especially if a fever is present, but it is not an immediate priority. The focus should be on stopping the transfusion and managing the acute symptoms.