A nurse is reviewing the laboratory results of a client and finds both their iron and vitamin B12 levels are below the expected reference range. The nurse should monitor the client for which of the following conditions?

A) Autonomy: Autonomy refers to the right of individuals to make their own choices and decisions. While the nurse’s actions may promote the client’s independence in the future, the nurse’s promise to walk with the client does not directly address or uphold the client’s autonomy. The nurse is offering support rather than encouraging the client to make independent decisions about their participation in the exercise.

B) Fidelity: Fidelity involves being faithful and keeping promises or commitments. In this scenario, the nurse promises to walk with the client in the courtyard each day, and this promise demonstrates the ethical principle of fidelity. The nurse is demonstrating trustworthiness and loyalty by committing to help the client overcome their anxiety and follow through with the daily exercise.

C) Justice: Justice is the ethical principle that focuses on fairness and equal treatment for all individuals. While justice is important in providing equal care to all clients, it is not the primary principle in this scenario. The nurse’s actions focus on meeting the specific needs of the individual client, which is more aligned with fidelity.

D) Nonmaleficence: Nonmaleficence means “do no harm.” While the nurse’s goal is to prevent harm by helping the client address their anxiety, the primary ethical principle at play here is fidelity, as the nurse is keeping their promise to provide consistent support. Nonmaleficence would be more relevant if the nurse were directly addressing potential harm or risk associated with the client’s situation, but the promise to walk with the client focuses more on the nurse’s commitment.

B. Ensure two nurses confirm the information on the blood label: Before initiating a blood transfusion, two nurses must verify the client’s identity, blood type, and compatibility with the donor blood. This step is essential to prevent transfusion reactions due to mismatched blood.

C. Obtain a large-bore IV catheter: A large-bore IV catheter (18–20 gauge) is necessary to facilitate the transfusion of packed red blood cells (PRBCs). A smaller gauge may cause hemolysis or delay administration.

D. Witness the client signing a consent for transfusion: A blood transfusion is an invasive procedure requiring informed consent. The nurse ensures the client understands the risks, benefits, and potential complications before signing the consent form.

Incorrect Options:

A. Explain to the client that transfusion reactions are not serious: This is incorrect because transfusion reactions can range from mild allergic responses to life-threatening anaphylaxis or hemolytic reactions. The nurse should educate the client on symptoms to report, such as fever, chills, or dyspnea.

E. Ensure the transfusion tubing is flushed with dextrose 5% in water: Blood products should only be administered with 0.9% sodium chloride to prevent hemolysis. Using dextrose solutions can cause red blood cell aggregation and clot formation.