A nurse who is left-handed is preparing to perform a straight catheterization for a client. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

A. Prime the blood tubing with dextrose 5% in water:
Priming the blood tubing with dextrose 5% in water is not appropriate for a blood transfusion. Blood tubing should be primed with normal saline, not dextrose solutions, to prevent hemolysis of the blood components.
B. Check vital signs before transfusion:
Before initiating a blood transfusion, it's essential to assess the client's vital signs, including temperature, pulse, respiratory rate, and blood pressure. Monitoring vital signs before, during, and after the transfusion helps identify any adverse reactions promptly.
C. Insert an IV with a 13-gauge needle:
Using a 13-gauge needle for IV insertion is not appropriate for a blood transfusion. Typically, a smaller gauge needle, such as 18 or 20 gauge, is used for venous access during a blood transfusion to minimize discomfort and reduce the risk of hemolysis.
D. Transfuse the blood product within 5 hr after removing it from refrigeration:
Blood products should be transfused within a specific timeframe after removal from refrigeration to minimize the risk of bacterial growth and subsequent infection. Typically, this timeframe is within 4 hours for packed red blood cells and within 24 hours for platelets. Adhering to the recommended timeframe ensures the safety and efficacy of the transfusion.
E. Check the expiration date of the blood product with a second nurse:
Verifying the expiration date of the blood product with a second nurse or healthcare provider is a crucial step to ensure patient safety and prevent the administration of expired blood products. This double-check process helps mitigate the risk of administering outdated or expired blood components.

A. Helping the client select a low-salt diet:
This option is not directly related to addressing tenacious bronchial secretions in COPD. While a low-salt diet may be beneficial for managing conditions like hypertension or heart failure, it does not directly influence the viscosity of bronchial secretions.

B. Administering oxygen via nasal cannula at 2 L/min:
Oxygen therapy is important for clients with COPD, especially during exacerbations or periods of hypoxemia. However, in this scenario, the client's primary concern is tenacious bronchial secretions, and oxygen therapy alone may not effectively address this issue.

C. Encouraging the client to drink 2 to 3 L of water daily:
This is the correct answer. Increasing fluid intake helps to hydrate the mucous membranes and thin bronchial secretions, making them easier to expectorate. Adequate hydration is essential for optimizing the clearance of secretions in clients with COPD.

D. Maintaining a semi-Fowler's position as often as possible:
While maintaining a semi-Fowler's position can improve respiratory mechanics and reduce dyspnea in clients with COPD, it does not directly address the issue of tenacious bronchial secretions. This position primarily helps in optimizing lung expansion and facilitating easier breathing.