A post-operative patient is at risk for developing a wound infection. Which of the following nursing assessments is the highest priority to prevent this complication?

A. While administering 0.9% sodium chloride is an important step to maintain venous access and to help dilute any blood that might still be in the tubing, it is not the first action to take if a transfusion reaction is suspected. This step should occur after the transfusion is stopped and the patient’s safety is ensured.
B. The immediate priority when a transfusion reaction is suspected is to stop the transfusion immediately. This action helps to prevent further exposure to the potentially harmful blood product and mitigates the risk of worsening the reaction. Stopping the transfusion also allows for prompt medical assessment and intervention.
C. Returning the unit of blood to the blood bank is important for investigation and to determine the cause of the reaction, but it should be done after stopping the transfusion and ensuring the client’s safety. The blood bank may require the returned unit to confirm any issues with the blood product.

D. Obtaining a blood sample from the client is crucial for diagnostic purposes and to identify the cause of the reaction, but this should be done after the transfusion has been stopped. The sample may help in diagnosing the type of reaction or in managing it, but it does not address the immediate safety concerns.

A. Asking the client to read their identification bracelet can be additional verification steps, but it is not standard practice for all institutions

B. To point to the surgical site can be additional verification steps, but it is not standard practice for all institutions.
C. Using two acceptable client identifiers, such as the client's name and date of birth, to confirm the patient's identity.
D. It is important to verify that the surgical site has been marked, which is a critical step in preventing wrong-site surgery.
E. Asking the client to state the surgery being performed is a good practice as it involves the patient in their care and serves as a final verification of the correct procedure.