A nurse is monitoring a client who is receiving a blood transfusion. After 15 minutes of starting the transfusion, the client develops hives, itching, and facial swelling. What is the nurse's immediate action?
Slow down the transfusion rate.
Elevate the client's feet and lower the head.
Discontinue the transfusion and infuse normal saline.
Administer an antihistamine as prescribed.
The Correct Answer is C
A) Incorrect: Slowing down the transfusion rate is not the appropriate action in this scenario. The client is experiencing signs of an allergic reaction, and the nurse must act promptly to address the situation.
B) Incorrect: Elevating the client's feet and lowering the head (Trendelenburg position) is not indicated for an allergic reaction. It may be used for clients in shock, but the priority is to manage the allergic reaction.
C) Correct: The nurse should immediately discontinue the transfusion and initiate the infusion of normal saline to maintain the client's intravascular volume. Discontinuing the blood transfusion helps prevent further exposure to the allergen (if an allergic reaction is confirmed) and addresses fluid volume needs.
D) Incorrect: While administering an antihistamine may be part of the treatment plan for an allergic reaction, it is not the immediate action. The nurse should first discontinue the transfusion and infuse normal saline as stated in option C.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) Correct: Red blood cells are the main blood component involved in the crossmatching process. Crossmatching ensures compatibility between the donor's red blood cells and the recipient's plasma, preventing adverse reactions during the transfusion.
B) Incorrect: White blood cells are not part of the crossmatching process. They play a role in the immune response but are not specifically assessed during crossmatching.
C) Incorrect: Platelets are not directly involved in the crossmatching process. Crossmatching primarily focuses on red blood cell compatibility.
D) Incorrect: Plasma is not directly involved in the crossmatching process. The focus is on ensuring compatibility between red blood cells and the recipient's plasma.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) Incorrect: Placing the client in a supine position with legs elevated is not appropriate in this situation. The client is showing signs of a potential severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) or a transfusion-related acute lung injury (TRALI), and the nurse should prioritize interventions accordingly.
B) Correct: Administering oxygen via a non-rebreather mask is the appropriate immediate action for a client experiencing respiratory distress and muffled heart sounds. This intervention helps improve oxygenation and respiratory function.
C) Incorrect: Checking the client's temperature and administering antipyretics is not indicated as the client's symptoms are not consistent with a fever. The focus should be on respiratory and cardiovascular support.
D) Incorrect: Stopping the blood transfusion is essential, but it is not the immediate action in this situation. The nurse's priority is to address the client's respiratory distress and ensure adequate oxygenation by administering oxygen, as stated in option B. Once the client is stable, the nurse should then notify the healthcare provider about the situation.
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