A nurse is caring for a client who is crying after receiving a terminal cancer diagnosis. Which of the following responses should the nurse make?

Rationale:

A. Positions the client in a chair before applying the stockings: Applying antiembolic stockings while the client is in a seated position may lead to venous pooling in the lower extremities. This reduces the effectiveness of the stockings and may cause improper fit or increased pressure in dependent areas.

B. Elevates the legs before applying the stockings: Elevating the legs allows venous blood to drain from the lower extremities, reducing swelling and promoting proper application of the stockings. This ensures the stockings provide even compression and help prevent complications like thrombus formation.

C. Rolls the extra stocking material down to the client's knee: Rolling down the stockings creates a tourniquet effect, which can impair circulation and increase the risk of complications like venous stasis or skin breakdown. Stockings should be smooth and free of folds.

D. Massages the legs before applying the stockings: Massaging the legs, especially in a client with phlebitis, may dislodge a clot if present and increase the risk of embolism. Gentle handling without vigorous massage is essential in clients at risk for thromboembolic events.

Rationale:

• Document the blood product transfusion in the client’s medical record: It is essential to record the transfusion, including time started and ended, vital signs, and any reactions. Documentation ensures traceability, supports patient safety, and meets regulatory and institutional requirements.

• Monitor the client for the first 15 min of the transfusion: The first 15 minutes are the most critical for detecting transfusion reactions, such as fever, chills, rash, or anaphylaxis. Continuous monitoring during this window allows for prompt intervention if adverse symptoms occur.

• Assist with obtaining the first unit of packed RBCs from the blood bank: RNs or authorized personnel can retrieve blood from the blood bank. Proper handling and timely transport of the blood ensure viability and reduce the risk of hemolysis or temperature-related damage.

• Assist with titrating the rate of infusion to maintain the client’s blood pressure at 90/60 mm Hg or above: Titrating transfusion rates based solely on BP is not within nursing protocol unless specifically ordered. Blood products must be infused according to prescription typically over 2 to 4 hours per unit unless a reaction or complication occurs.

• Start an IV bolus of lactated Ringer’s solution: The provider specifically prescribed a 0.9% sodium chloride bolus. Lactated Ringer’s is contraindicated during transfusions because it contains calcium, which can cause clotting when mixed with blood products.

• Discard the blood bag in the client’s trash can after the transfusion: Blood bags must be disposed of in biohazard containers to comply with infection control policies. Discarding medical waste in general trash violates safety protocols and increases contamination risk.