A nurse is collecting data on a client who is receiving a unit of PRBCs. Which of the following findings is a manifestation of an allergic transfusion reaction?

The correct answer is b. Decreased deep tendon reflexes.

Choice A: Wheezing

Reason: Wheezing is typically associated with respiratory conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or allergic reactions. It is not a common manifestation of hyperkalemia. Hyperkalemia primarily affects the muscular and cardiovascular systems rather than the respiratory system.

Choice B: Decreased deep tendon reflexes

Reason: Hyperkalemia can cause neuromuscular symptoms, including muscle weakness and decreased deep tendon reflexes. High potassium levels interfere with the normal function of muscle cells and nerves, leading to these symptoms. This is a direct result of the altered action potentials in neurons caused by elevated potassium levels.

Choice C: Hypoactive bowel sounds

Reason: Hypoactive bowel sounds are generally associated with conditions that cause decreased gastrointestinal motility, such as ileus or bowel obstruction. While hyperkalemia can affect muscle function, it is more likely to cause hyperactive bowel sounds due to increased gastrointestinal motility rather than hypoactive sounds.

Choice D: Cerebral edema

Reason: Cerebral edema is swelling of the brain and is not a typical manifestation of hyperkalemia. It is more commonly associated with conditions such as traumatic brain injury, stroke, or severe infections. Hyperkalemia primarily affects the heart and muscles.

Choice A reason: Donning sterile gloves is an essential step to prevent contamination and infection during the insertion of an indwelling urinary catheter. The nurse should also use aseptic technique and a sterile catheter kit.

Choice B reason: Applying an oil-based lubricant to the indwelling urinary catheter is not recommended, as it can damage the latex material and increase the risk of catheter-associated urinary tract infection (CAUTI). The nurse should use a water-soluble lubricant instead.

Choice C reason: Testing the balloon on the indwelling urinary catheter before insertion is a good practice, as it ensures that the balloon is functioning properly and does not leak or burst. The nurse should inflate and deflate the balloon with sterile water or saline using a syringe.

Choice D reason: Using one cotton swab to clean the client's urinary meatus is not sufficient, as it may not remove all the bacteria and debris. The nurse should use at least three cotton swabs and clean the meatus from front to back in a circular motion. The nurse should also use an antiseptic solution such as chlorhexidine or povidone-iodine.