A nurse is assisting with the care of a client who needs an interpreter. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Rationale

• Ensure the transfusion tubing is flushed with dextrose 5% in water: Flushing with D5W can cause hemolysis due to the hypotonicity and sugar content, leading to clumping or damage to red blood cells. Normal saline is the only acceptable fluid for flushing or administering with blood products to maintain cell integrity and avoid adverse reactions.

• Obtain a large-bore IV catheter: A large-bore catheter, typically 18–20 gauge, is necessary to allow rapid infusion of blood and reduce the risk of hemolysis. It also minimizes resistance and facilitates effective delivery during emergencies like hypovolemic shock from GI bleeding.

• Witness the client signing a consent for transfusion: Informed consent is a legal and ethical requirement prior to initiating a transfusion. The nurse must ensure that the client understands the purpose, benefits, and risks of the procedure, and the nurse may witness the client’s signature.

• Ensure two nurses confirm the information on the blood label: Verifying the client's identity and blood product information by two licensed personnel prevents transfusion errors, such as ABO incompatibility. This is a critical safety measure and a standard facility protocol before starting the transfusion.

• Explain to the client that transfusion reactions are not serious: Minimizing the risks of transfusion reactions is misleading and unsafe. Some reactions can be life-threatening, such as hemolytic or anaphylactic reactions. The nurse should provide accurate education about potential signs and encourage prompt reporting.

Rationale:

A. "I will follow a full-liquid diet the day before the procedure.": Clients are typically instructed to follow a clear-liquid, not full-liquid, diet the day before a colonoscopy. Clear liquids like broth, gelatin, and clear juice help ensure the colon is clean for optimal visualization.

B. "I'll have my friend drive me home after the procedure.": Sedation is usually administered during a colonoscopy, which impairs alertness and coordination. Having a responsible adult to drive the client home is necessary and reflects appropriate understanding of post-procedure safety.

C. "I can expect rectal bleeding for a week after the procedure”: Rectal bleeding after a colonoscopy is not expected and could indicate complications such as a perforation or polyp removal site bleeding. Any persistent or heavy bleeding should be reported immediately.

D. "This procedure will take place while I’m under general anesthesia.”: Colonoscopies are generally performed under moderate (conscious) sedation, not general anesthesia. Clients remain semi-awake but relaxed and unaware, making this statement inaccurate.