A nurse is planning care for a client who is scheduled to receive a transfusion of packed RBCs.
Which of the following actions should the nurse plan to take?
Store the unit of blood at room temperature for 1 hr prior to the infusion.
Ensure that the transfusion is completed within 6 hr.
Obtain venous access using a 22-gauge needle.
Use a solution of 0.9% sodium chloride to flush the transfusion tubing.
The Correct Answer is D
The correct answer is D. Use a solution of 0.9% sodium chloride to flush the transfusion tubing.
Choice A reason: Storing a unit of blood at room temperature for 1 hour prior to the infusion is not recommended. Blood products should be kept refrigerated until just before the transfusion to minimize the risk of bacterial contamination. The recommended storage temperature for packed RBCs is 1-6°C. If blood is left at room temperature, it should be infused within 30 minutes to ensure safety.
Choice B reason: Ensuring that the transfusion is completed within 6 hours is not correct. The standard practice is to complete a blood transfusion over 2 to 4 hours, depending on the volume and the patient’s condition. This is to reduce the risk of bacterial growth and transfusion reactions. Prolonging the transfusion time beyond 4 hours increases the risk of bacterial contamination and can compromise the efficacy of the transfused red blood cells.
Choice C reason: Obtaining venous access using a 22-gauge needle is not ideal for a transfusion of packed RBCs. A larger bore needle, typically an 18-gauge or 20-gauge, is preferred to ensure adequate flow of the viscous packed RBCs and to prevent hemolysis. The smaller the gauge number, the larger the needle diameter, so a 22-gauge needle might be too small and could damage the red blood cells during the transfusion.
Choice D reason: Using a solution of 0.9% sodium chloride to flush the transfusion tubing is the correct action. Normal saline is isotonic and is the only fluid compatible with packed RBCs. It is used to prime the transfusion set and to flush the line before and after the transfusion to prevent hemolysis and clotting within the tubing.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Expecting to have a rapid pulse rate for the first few weeks is not accurate information for a client with a newly implanted implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD). After the ICD placement, the client's heart rate should stabilize within normal ranges. A consistently rapid pulse rate might indicate an issue with the device or the client's cardiovascular system, necessitating further evaluation.
Choice B rationale:
Returning in two weeks for a follow-up MRI is not advisable immediately after ICD placement. MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) is contraindicated for individuals with ICDs due to the magnetic fields, which can interfere with the functioning of the device. The timing and necessity of any future MRI should be carefully planned and discussed with the healthcare provider in charge of the client's care.
Choice C rationale:
Resuming tub baths and swimming after 24 hours is not recommended after ICD placement. Submerging the ICD site in water, especially in the initial healing phase, can increase the risk of infection. Clients with newly implanted ICDs are usually advised to avoid submerging the device site in water for a specified period, as recommended by their healthcare provider.
Choice D rationale:
Wearing loose-fitting clothing is important advice for clients with newly implanted ICDs. Tight clothing, especially around the site of the device, can cause irritation and discomfort. Loose-fitting clothing ensures proper airflow to the site, reducing the risk of irritation and allowing for optimal healing. It is essential to provide this information to the client to promote comfort and prevent complications related to the ICD placement.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The correct answer is Choice B.
Choice A rationale: Maintaining bed elevation at 20 degrees is not recommended. The recommended bed elevation for patients receiving enteral tube feedings is at least 30 to 45 degrees.This is to prevent aspiration of the feeding solution into the lungs.
Choice B rationale: Flushing the tubing with 30 mL of water every 4 hours is a recommended practice.This helps to maintain the patency of the feeding tube and prevent clogging.
Choice C rationale: Checking for gastric residual every 12 hours is not sufficient.For patients receiving continuous tube feedings, gastric residual volume (GRV) should be monitored every 4 hours.This helps to assess tolerance to the feeding and prevent complications such as aspiration.
Choice D rationale: Placing enough formula in the container to last 18 hours is not recommended.For an open system, the formula should be replaced every 4 hours to prevent bacterial growth.
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