A nurse is providing teaching about advance directives to a middle adult client. Which of the following client responses indicates an understanding of the teaching?

- A. This client is at risk of harming themselves by removing the IV line, which could cause bleeding, infection, or loss of medication. This is a priority issue that requires immediate intervention by the nurse.

- B. This client is experiencing a common side effect of pain medication, which can be managed by administering antiemetics, fluids, or changing the medication. This is not a life-threatening issue and can be addressed after attending to the client in choice A.

- C. This client has a chronic condition that requires regular dialysis, but they are not in acute distress at this time. They should be monitored for signs of fluid overload, electrolyte imbalance, or infection, but they are not a priority over the client in choice A.

- D. This client has a psychosocial need that should be respected and supported by the nurse, but it is not an urgent issue that requires immediate attention. The nurse can arrange for a visit from the chaplain after attending to the client in choice A.

Choice A rationale:

Hanging the transfusion with dextrose 5% in 0.9% sodium chloride is incorrect. Packed red blood cells (PRBCs) are transfused with normal saline (0.9% sodium chloride) and not with dextrose-containing solutions. Using dextrose can cause the red blood cells to hemolyze.

Choice B rationale:

Infusing the transfusion over 5 hours is incorrect. PRBC transfusions are typically administered over 2-4 hours, not 5 hours. Infusing the blood too slowly may cause the patient discomfort and may also increase the risk of bacterial growth in the blood product.

Choice C rationale:

Using a 20-gauge IV catheter to transfuse the blood is incorrect. While a 20-gauge IV catheter is suitable for most blood transfusions, it may not be appropriate for older adults or patients with fragile veins. A smaller gauge, such as 22 or 24, might be more suitable to prevent phlebitis and ensure a steady flow without damaging the blood cells.

Choice D rationale:

Monitoring vital signs every hour throughout the transfusion is the correct action. During a blood transfusion, it's crucial to monitor the patient's vital signs frequently to detect any adverse reactions promptly. Vital signs, including blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, and temperature, should be assessed before the transfusion, 15 minutes after starting the transfusion, and then hourly thereafter. This vigilant monitoring helps in identifying potential transfusion reactions, such as fever, chills, or hypotension, allowing for immediate intervention if needed.