A nurse is assisting with the care of a postoperative client who is receiving a unit of packed RBCs. Which data should the nurse recognize as an indication of a septic reaction to the blood transfusion?

Choice A reason: Using analgesia around the clock is an appropriate action. The nurse should follow the principle of prevention rather than rescue when managing pain for a client who has terminal cancer. The nurse should administer analgesics on a regular schedule to maintain a steady level of pain relief and prevent breakthrough pain.

Choice B reason: Applying pain patches each morning and removing them at bedtime is not an appropriate action. The nurse should follow the manufacturer's instructions for applying and removing pain patches. Some patches are designed to be worn for 24 hours, while others are worn for 72 hours. Removing the patches too soon can cause inadequate pain control and withdrawal symptoms.

Choice C reason: Using intramuscular medications to control pain is not an appropriate action. The nurse should avoid using intramuscular route for administering analgesics to a client who has terminal cancer. Intramuscular injections are painful, unreliable, and increase the risk of infection and bleeding. The nurse should use oral, transdermal, or subcutaneous routes whenever possible.

Choice D reason: Decreasing a medication dose if the client develops tolerance is not an appropriate action. The nurse should understand that tolerance is a normal physiological response to long-term opioid use and does not indicate addiction or abuse. The nurse should adjust the medication dose according to the client's level of pain and response to treatment.

Choice A: This is correct because suction equipment is essential for clearing the airway of secretions or vomitus during or after a seizure. The nurse should have suction equipment ready and accessible at the client's bedside at all times.

Choice B: This is incorrect because backboard is not needed for a client who has a seizure disorder. Backboard is used for immobilizing the spine in case of a suspected spinal injury.

Choice C: This is incorrect because padded tongue blades are not recommended for a client who has a seizure disorder. Padded tongue blades can cause injury to the teeth, gums, or tongue if inserted during a seizure. The nurse should never force anything into the mouth of a client who is having a seizure.

Choice D: This is incorrect because wrist restraints are not indicated for a client who has a seizure disorder. Wrist restraints can cause injury or skin breakdown if applied during a seizure. The nurse should never restrain or restrict the movements of a client who is having a seizure.