A transfusion of packed red blood cells (PRBCs) has been infusing for 5 minutes when the patient becomes flushes and tachypneic and says, "I'm having chills. Please get me a blanket." Which action should the nurse take first?
Stop the transfusion
Administer oxygen
Obtain a blanket from the warmer
Check the patient's oral temperature
The Correct Answer is A
A. This is the first and most critical action to take. The patient's symptoms suggest a possible transfusion reaction, which can be life-threatening. Stopping the transfusion immediately prevents further exposure to potentially harmful blood components.
B. Administering oxygen may be necessary if the patient exhibits signs of respiratory distress or hypoxia. However, this action should come after ensuring that the transfusion is stopped and the patient is stabilized, as continuing the transfusion could exacerbate the reaction.
C. While providing warmth can help alleviate chills, it is not the priority action. The patient's safety is more important, and symptoms of a transfusion reaction must be addressed first.
D. Checking the temperature can provide useful information about the patient's condition, especially if a fever is present, but it is not an immediate priority. The focus should be on stopping the transfusion and managing the acute symptoms.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. While patients with latent TB may be treated to prevent progression to active TB, the treatment duration is generally shorter—typically around 3 to 9 months, depending on the medication regimen (e.g., isoniazid for 9 months or rifampin for 4 months).
B. Individuals with latent TB will usually test positive on a Mantoux test (also known as a tuberculin skin test), indicating they have been exposed to the TB bacteria. However, those with latent TB do not have active disease and may not have symptoms.
C. Individuals with latent TB do not spread the bacteria to others because the infection is contained and does not cause active disease. Only those with active TB can transmit the bacteria, regardless of sputum test results.
D. Patients with latent TB are not contagious and cannot spread the bacteria to others. The bacteria remain inactive in the body, and only a small percentage of these individuals may develop active TB in the future.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Prednisone can lead to sodium and fluid retention, which can result in hypertension and edema. While this is an important consideration, it is not the most critical point to emphasize initially. Managing weight and blood pressure is essential, but there are more immediate concerns with the medication's use.
B. Long-term use of prednisone can result in changes such as fat redistribution, leading to a "moon face," buffalo hump, and increased abdominal fat. This is significant for understanding the side effects of prolonged therapy, but it is not the most urgent information for the client to know.
C. Prednisone can cause side effects such as mood changes, anxiety, or jitteriness, especially when initiating treatment or adjusting dosages. While this is relevant, the potential for emotional or psychological effects is secondary to the critical management of the medication.
D. This is the most critical point to emphasize. Prednisone is a corticosteroid that can suppress the body's natural adrenal function. Abrupt discontinuation can lead to adrenal crisis, which can be life- threatening.
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