An assistive personnel (AP) reports a client's vital signs as tympanic temperature 37.1° C (98.8° F), pulse 92/min, respiratory rate 18/min, and BP 88/58 mm Hg. Which of the following vital signs should the nurse re-measure?

Choice A rationale:

Washing hands for 5 to 10 seconds prior to administering medication is indeed an important safety measure, but it is not specifically related to changing or applying a transdermal patch. Hand hygiene is crucial to prevent the spread of infection, but it doesn't directly address the process of applying a patch.

Choice B rationale:

Applying the patch over a non-hairy area within the patient's skin is the correct answer. This is crucial because hair can interfere with the adhesion of the patch, leading to inadequate drug absorption. The rationale behind this is to ensure that the medication is effectively delivered through the skin into the bloodstream without any barriers such as hair. It's also important to choose a site that is clean, dry, and free from cuts or irritation.

Choice C rationale:

Leaving the previous medication patch in place is not recommended. It's essential to remove the old patch before applying a new one to prevent accumulation of the medication and to ensure accurate dosing. Failing to remove the previous patch could lead to an overdose or altered drug effects.

Choice D rationale:

Ensuring that the patient is lying down is not a specific safety measure for changing or applying a transdermal patch. The patient's position doesn't directly impact the effectiveness of the patch or the safety of the application process.

Choice A rationale:

Fresh frozen plasma (FFP) is a component of blood used to replace clotting factors and is typically indicated for specific medical conditions like bleeding disorders or massive transfusions. In this case, the client requires red blood cells due to significant blood loss, so FFP alone is not the appropriate choice.

Choice B rationale:

Initiating an immediate blood transfusion without the client's consent is not ethically appropriate, especially considering the client's religious beliefs as a Jehovah's Witness. Respecting the client's autonomy and religious convictions is important.

Choice C rationale:

Asking the client to decide about the blood transfusion is the correct course of action. Since the client is able to respond to questions appropriately, they should be informed about their condition, the need for a blood transfusion, and the potential risks and benefits. This respects the client's autonomy while ensuring they have the necessary information to make an informed decision.

Choice D rationale:

Notifying the client's family immediately is not the best initial action. While involving the family is important, the client's own decision about the blood transfusion should take precedence, especially when they are conscious and able to make decisions for themselves.