Client reports to clinic for monthly prenatal visit. Client is at 20 weeks of gestation. Since last visit, client reports concern about the occurrence of intermittent mild backaches, increased heartburn, generalized itching, and vaginal discharge. Which one of the following statements should the nurse include in the clients teaching? Select all that apply

Indicated:

Titrate the rate of infusion to maintain the client’s blood pressure at least 90/60 mmHg: - The client is hypotensive (76/45 mmHg), likely due to acute blood loss anemia from a gastrointestinal (GI) bleed. Adjusting the transfusion rate helps stabilize BP while preventing volume overload.

Stay with the client for the first 15 minutes of the transfusion: The highest risk of a transfusion reaction (e.g., hemolysis, anaphylaxis, febrile reaction) occurs within the first 15 minutes, so the nurse must remain with the client for close monitoring.

Obtain the first unit of packed RBCs from the blood bank: The client’s condition (hypotension, tachycardia, history of melena) suggests GI bleeding and significant blood loss. RBC transfusion is required to restore oxygen-carrying capacity and improve perfusion.

Document the blood product transfusion in the client’s medical records: Proper documentation includes blood product type, volume infused, time started and completed, client response, and any adverse reactions. This ensures compliance with safety protocols.

Not Indicated:

Start an IV bolus of lactated Ringer’s solution: Lactated Ringer’s (LR) is incompatible with blood products because it contains calcium, which can cause clotting in the IV line. Normal saline (0.9% NaCl) should be used instead.

Given the client's symptoms of constant chest pressure that is unrelieved with rest, along with the client's appearance of anxiety, pallor, and diaphoresis, it indicates a high likelihood of an acute coronary event, such as a myocardial infarction (heart attack). In this situation, the nurse should prioritize immediate actions that address the potential cardiac emergency.

Aspirin is an essential medication in the initial management of acute coronary syndrome, including unstable angina and myocardial infarction. It helps to inhibit platelet aggregation and reduce the risk of clot formation in the coronary arteries. The chewable form of aspirin is recommended because it allows for more rapid absorption.

While evaluating extremities for perfusion, pulse volume, and pitting edema is important in assessing the client's overall cardiovascular status, it is not the immediate next step when faced with a suspected acute coronary event.

Securing client consent for coronary angiography and percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is a relevant step in the management of unstable angina and myocardial infarction, but it is not the immediate action to be taken in the emergency department. The client requires stabilization and initial medical interventions before procedural consent can be obtained.

Placing an indwelling urinary catheter and instituting strict intake and output measurements is not a priority action in this situation. The focus should be on addressing the potential acute coronary event and ensuring the client's cardiac stability. Urinary catheterization and monitoring of intake and output can be considered later, if necessary.